VIE Magazine January 2024 by The Idea Boutique

Stories with Hea Heart rt &Soul™ A

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NE E R O

Organic, Clean Living J E N I F E R KU N TZ

& S

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SHARES HER STORY

HEALTH Is WEALTH

January 2024

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THE WELLNESS ISSUE

Linda Miller is now entering her 25th year of selling Real Estate on Scenic Highway 30A!

B R O K E R /O W N E R L I N D A M I L L E R (850) 974-8885 | Linda@TheSmileof30a.com P.O. Box 611362, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

Call me and let’s talk about Real Estate! L I N D A M I L L E R L U X U R Y.C O M

GIVI N G BACK TO OU R COM MU N IT Y As a proud board member of the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Linda Miller is donating a portion of proceeds to this 501(c)(3) organization.

LAST CHANCE in SANTIMO

7 4 E LY S E E C T, I N L E T B E A C H , F L 5 BR | 6 B A | 5,670 S Q. FT. O FFE RED AT $5 ,75 0, 000

Linda Miller Real Estate has ONE MORE luxury beach home available in the new Santimo private beach community on 30A between Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach. Gated cul-de-sac is steps from the Gulf! This is the perfect family beach house with living and dining on the first floor, a private pool, four guest suites, game room, and much more.

SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD

A L U X U R Y N E W U R B A N I S T CO M M U N I T Y O N T H E S PA R K L I N G , E M E R A L D WAT E R S A N D P R I S T I N E , W H I T E S A N D S O F T H E N O R T H W E ST F LO R I D A COAS T.

CO N TA C T S A L E S | 85 0 . 213 . 55 0 0 | 18 N C H A R L E S S T, A LYS B E A C H , F L 324 61 | A LYS B E A C H . CO M

a unique shopping experience on

30 A

furniture • lighting • rugs • art • gifts • jewelry • accessories • outdoor • interior design 32 E County hw y 30a, gr ayton Beach, FL 32459 | (850)534-0700 www.beauhomeinteriors.com

AA 26001879

A BOHEME DESIGN

Architecture designed around You and the things You love...

www.aboheme.com

A New Construction Home in the Gulfside Gated Community of Heritage Dunes on Scenic Highway 30-A

C PROJE

TION

PHOTO BY MCEACHIN MEDIA

B AY C O N S

GrandBayConstruction.com | (850) 231-1437 | @grandbayconstruction 110 Logan Lane #3, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459

In this issue On the Cover

Fresh from VIE’s second luxury coffeetable book, COOK: Cocktails. Cuisine. Culture., and opening a new cafe location in Grayton Beach, Florida, Raw & Juicy owner Jenifer Kuntz shares a story of business evolution, creating a farm-totable mindset in Northwest Florida’s beach communities, expanding her line of organic lifestyle products, and more. Sit down at Kuntz’s table and learn more about this legacy brand that has revolutionized how people and businesses think about food along Scenic Highway 30-A and beyond. Plus, enjoy two recipes from Raw & Juicy to kickstart your healthy New Year! Photo by Romona Robbins

A SPIRITUAL PILGRIMAGE LIKE NO OTHER, THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO HAS LED TRAVELERS THROUGH THE SPANISH COUNTRYSIDE TO VISIT THE BURIAL PLACE OF ST. JAMES IN SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA SINCE 950 AD.

Photo courtesy of Photo by Iago Viana Gonzalez/Shutterstock

FEATURE 24 Honestly Organic: The Evolution of

72 Connection, Clarity & Communication: A

BON APPÉTIT! 23

79 Petite pause: Relax & Renew at Ponte

30 Petite pause: Escape to Amanyara Turks & Caicos

38 Beyond the Bottle: Making Supplements Chic

PUBLISHED BY

43 L’intermission: Good for the Body & Soul

Guide to Relationships Vedra Inn & Spa

C’EST LA VIE CURATED COLLECTION 82 89 L’intermission: Self-Love Role Model

VOYAGER 91

LA VITALITÉ 45

92 Through the Tunnel: Seekers Find Healing

46 Unlocking Vitality: Health Tips from an

on Medieval Pilgrimage

Aligned Entrepreneur

96 Petite pause: Burning Man Sculpture

50 Holistic Health & Herbalism

Debuts in Miami

56 Petite pause: Welcome to Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel

58 Discovering Faith, True Beauty & Confidence 60 This Is Your Sign: Spiritual Awakening, Overcoming Chronic Illness & Healing

THEIDEABOUTIQUE.COM INFO@THEIDEABOUTIQUE.COM

Method with Alisa Vitti

Raw & Juicy

32 Meet the Granola Butter Queen

Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.

66 Finding Your Flow: The Cycle Syncing

65 L’intermission: The Superfood Hunter

LA SCÈNE 98 THE LAST WORD 103 AU REVOIR! 107

114 LOGAN LANE, SUITE 4 SANTA ROSA BEACH, FLORIDA 32459 V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 13

CREATIVE TEAM CEO/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CREATIVE DIRECTOR LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

FOUNDER / PUBLISHER GERALD BURWELL Gerald@VIEmagazine.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR JORDAN STAGGS Jordan@VIEmagazine.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

GUEST EDITOR HAILEY BETHKE

COPY EDITOR WENDY ANDERSON

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS WENDY ANDERSON, HAILEY BETHKE, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL, SUZANNE POLL AK, K AREN RICE, COLLEEN SACHS, XENIA TALIOTIS

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY ART DIRECTOR SALLY NEAL Sally@VIEmagazine.com

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Jack Kirkendall

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ANNA SIMPSON HANNAH VERMILLION

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS L AUREN ATHALIA, HUNTER BURGTORF, ROMMEL DEMANO, JACK GARDNER, IAGO VIANA GONZALEZ, FLETCHER ISACKS, BRENNA KNEISS, JEFF L ANDRETH, CARLO PIERONI, ELEANOR PREGER, ROMONA ROBBINS, FREDRIK A STJÄRNE, TEAL THOMPSEN, CHANDLER WILLIAMS, BFA, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, SHUTTERSTOCK

ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING DIRECTOR OF MARKETING KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR McKenna Mears McKenna@VIEmagazine.com

MARKETING COORDINATORS HAILEY BETHKE ABBY RYAN

BRAND AMBASSADORS LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com MARTA RATA Marta@VIEmagazine.com

VIE is a registered trademark. All contents herein are Copyright © 2008–2024 Cornerstone Marketing and Advertising, Incorporated (Publisher). All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. VIE is a lifestyle magazine and is published twelve times annually on a monthly schedule. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher and its advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication. The Publisher is not liable for the accuracy of statements made by its advertisers. Ads that appear in this publication are not intended as offers where prohibited by state law. The Publisher is not responsible for photography or artwork submitted by freelance or outside contributors. The Publisher reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor or the Publisher. VIE is a paid publication. Subscription rates: Printed magazine – One-year $29.95; Two-year $49.95. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.VIEmagazine.com.

14 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

Photo by Romona Robbins

LET US MAKE YOUR HOUSE A H O M E T H I S New Year

ALBANY, GA | MACON, GA | COLUMBUS, GA SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL | TALLAHASSEE, FL | EASTPOINT, FL

WWW.SELLERSTILE.COM | 850-622-9797

Editor’s Note

A BEAUT IFUL LIFE CREATING the LIFE YOU WANT Is WITHIN REACH

t times, it feels like we don’t have the ability to take control of our lives, as there aren’t many solutions to implement to change our destiny. But that doesn’t mean we should stop trying. As the saying goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” One of my struggles as a business owner is managing time for myself and the company. My travels abroad over the years gave me so much intel that many other countries do not work themselves to the bone like many of us do in America. The output and expectations we have to keep up with seem to preclude us from changing the tide of our existence. But I have read a lot about this lately and found many others who feel the same way I did. In studying and pondering this plight against the clock, I stumbled upon the Slow Living movement, where people decided to live a more balanced, meaningful life by slowing things down and appreciating the world around them. In turn, it fosters more time for self-care. I have begun viewing the term “self-care” as “self-preservation.” It’s not a new thought process, but an epiphany for me is that you have to choose it and take steps to alter how you live. I’ve touched on this topic in the past year but have evolved my thinking into implementation. Ideas without application are just imagination. It seemed I was fighting the status quo and expectations I didn’t even agree with. I felt like I was at war against time. So, I made some changes this year, starting with trying a four-day workweek for the fourth or fifth time over the past several years. The first attempts failed, and I have several hypotheses about why, but mainly because not enough work was getting done. The first attempts were four ten-hour work days, which was hard on people; they were too tired to adequately make up for what a five-day workweek could achieve. This year, we implemented an eight-hour, four-day work week, which worked really well until the holidays were upon us and time was in shorter supply. This, coupled with closing for December so people could enjoy the holidays, rest, and recalibrate, was a lofty goal but one I was willing to try again. It made a big difference for us last year. Life changes quickly, so we have to adapt to new situations and make modifications, but if we don’t even try to harness having a life rather than just working, we have given up.

Another part of the recipe we implemented this year to foster healthy living was hiring 4x4 Mobile Fitness to train the team twice a week before work. We work out in the parking lot of our office, and it’s been one of the best things we have done. It ensured we all get in a few good sessions, camaraderie, and esprit de corps that can’t be found any other way—plus self-respect, which may be the best of all the virtues. Our trainer, Derek McMahon, has been a blessing and a great representative of the founder and owner of 4x4, Zach Olstad. Zach is a former NFL player for the Buffalo Bills and now resides in Nashville. He most recently expanded his business in the 30-A area of Florida. This mobile personal training company comes to you, striving to make fitness convenient and effective for everyone! According to Zach, “By bringing the gym to you, we help our clients lose all excuses.” Truer words were never spoken. It’s fitting to have our annual health and wellness issue at the start of January, as we usually make new resolutions and goals for ourselves at the onset of the new year. A clean slate, as it were, is a reminder there is always newness and improvement to make when living a purposeful life. Our former intern and marketing coordinator, Hailey Bethke—a young lady who is wise beyond her years and embodies living with intent—did a phenomenal job as guest editor, curating products and interviewing several wellness experts throughout this issue to create a well-rounded wellness lineup. Knowledge is power, and we have learned over the years that a purposeful and mindful life is a healthy and peaceful one. Happy New Year! To A Blessed Year Ahead,

—Lisa Marie Burwell CEO/Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director

Above: The Idea Boutique/ VIE publishing team with trainer trainerDerek DerekMacMahon McMahon of 4x4 Mobile Fitness V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 17

Photo by Kiana Tate Photography Necklace and body chain by Reshelled Jewelry

everything we do is to make sure

our ophelia girls are

looking & feeling their best

The Creatives We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media, and remember to check out our account, @viemagazine. IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES: HOW DO YOU PLAN TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO IMPROVE YOUR WELLNESS IN 2024?

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND ASKING YOURSELF HOW YOU CAN SHIFT YOUR MARK GROVES Founder, Create the Love @createthelove

ENERGY AND WELCOME GREAT TRANSFORMATION INTO YOUR LIFE THIS YEAR.

To me, personal wellness is sourced from being in alignment with one’s values. When our son Jasper was born, I committed to getting in the best shape of my life, and I plan to carry that goal and the momentum it has into 2024. This commitment has been an incredible experience where I’ve discovered a new level of discipline that I previously didn’t know I had! I’ve lost weight, I feel more confident and clear, and the trust I have in myself to keep my word and do hard things has skyrocketed. I can’t wait to cultivate even more of that in 2024.

JORDAN YOUNGER OLIVIA AMITRANO Founder, The Balanced Blonde @thebalancedblonde

Founder, Organic Olivia @organic_olivia

There are two main areas I’m looking to improve: my mental health and muscle health. While I attend therapy regularly, and it’s been a game changer, I find the greatest gains come from the daily work you commit to beyond that container. I’ve promised myself to pray each morning—it may sound silly, but it transforms the tone and perspective of my day. I’m not even particularly religious, but speaking words of gratitude out loud and wishing for the happiness of those I love brings me an immense sense of peace and mental well-being. Fitness-wise, I finally began strength training in 2023 and got in the best shape of my life (thus far) at age thirty. However, I’m ready to take my muscle mass to the next level and will be learning better form from a personal trainer. It’s time to loop in a professional so I don’t hurt myself as I increase my weight, and it’s great practice asking for help.

DURANA ELMI COO, Cymbiotika @duranaelmi

As a lifelong learner, I believe there will always be new opportunities for growth and improvement. That’s why I plan on challenging myself even more in 2024 to continue on this path. First, I plan to set aside time for activities such as immersing myself in books, articles, and publications. Reading these materials opens doors to fresh perspectives and insights I may not encounter otherwise. Second, I’ll attend workshops and seminars to elevate my leadership skills. Lastly, I’ll dedicate time to exploring new hobbies. I know these endeavors will bring me joy and enable me to navigate life’s challenges more effectively since I can always look back on my experiences and perspectives.

I plan to dive into my fitness and meditation practices in a whole new way in 2024, because my body and mind are calling for an uplevel. I am juggling so much in my life right now; if I continue my current practice, it won’t be enough for all I am calling in and manifesting. Personal wellness starts from within, so I always start by ensuring I get great sleep, nourishing my body with anti-inflammatory and delicious foods, and spending time with people who lift me up, especially my two-year-old son, Atticus! I am thrilled about launching my new meditation platform because creating the meditations has challenged me and allowed me to dig into a whole new level of my soul. I had to change my energy and essentially change my life to bring these and my new book to life! So only good things are happening. I highly recommend asking yourself how you can shift your energy and welcome great transformation into your life this year. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 19

TIMELESS STYLES FOR THE BEACH & BEYOND

La conversation

Happy New Year! Sharing stories, memories, and laughs is at the heart of everything we do! If you have a fun adventure to share, be sure to tag VIE; we would love to see where 2024 takes our readers. Have a look at some recent experiences and stories below. Until next month, read responsibly!

@theideaboutique Such a fun book signing this weekend in @seasidefl featuring the founder of @theseasidestyle and cofounder of SEASIDE®, Daryl Rose Davis! Daryl was signing her new coffee-table book that shares the story of The Seaside Style®. Our team @theideaboutique worked with Daryl and the Seaside team to design and publish this stunning book. Pop into @theseasidestyle and grab a copy! @viespeaks We asked Jennifer Steele, Executive Director for the Cultural Arts Alliance, what was one of her favorite moments from the last 15 years of @30afest, and her number one was seeing John Prine. 30A Songwriters Festival is an amazing opportunity to check out 175+ artists in over 30 venues around @southwalton, Florida. Add it to your calendar for January 12–15, 2024!

@churchilloaksfl We’re welcoming December with a return to our social media platforms. We have welcomed many new families to our community and made countless memories in this beautiful enclave we call home. From our family to yours, we are incredibly thankful for each of you and wish you a wonderful holiday season! Roy & Wendy Sembera | Photo by @romonarobbinsreynolds / @viemagazine

@thepaperbearfilm We are leaping for joy! On Giving Tuesday, we secured a partnership with Walton County, Florida, to help us complete the animation in our upcoming feature film! Soon, the local community and the millions who visit each year will learn more about the amazing natural wonders in the area. A BIG thank you to the county and everyone who has shown their support on this incredible journey. Stay tuned!

LET’S TALK!

@patrickdavismusic Hey gang, I have not posted in a week or so ’cause, well, I have been playin’, singin’, and workin’ down in Mexico for @songwritersinparadise Cabo and also because social media is essentially the worst. But alas, here are a few pics from the past week of guitars, cigars, tequila, and genuine smiles from people not staring at their phones. Sendin’ love to ya all. Photo: @thegrizzlymedia

@e.f.sanjuan Our founder and CEO, Edward F. San Juan, is developing the bespoke Seaside Prize Key Enclosure that will be awarded to the 2024 Prize recipients, Joseph Kohl and Victor Dover of @doverkohl in February! E. F. San Juan is proud to sponsor the 2024 Seaside Prize Weekend, February 2–4, hosted by @seaside_institute. Visit SeasideInstitute.org to register for a weekend of inspiration, lectures, symposia, and celebrations in Seaside, FL, Alys Beach, and Rosemary Beach, Florida!

Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!

VIEmagazine.com

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 21

Photo by Jeff Landreth

Just as the iconic pavilions of Seaside, Florida, have created a lasting legacy for the town, La Florida Coastal Properties brings a 45-year legacy of living, marketing, and selling the Emerald Coast. Our team of real estate specialists loves this area and loves sharing its laid-back, beautiful lifestyle with our clients. Seaside's Coleman Pavilion, designed by architect David Coleman, stands as a beacon of the simple yet undoubtedly stylish way of living throughout our beach communities along the Gulf of Mexico. 3 2 E A S T C O U N T Y H I G H WAY 3 0 A , S U I T E J | S A N TA R O S A B E A C H , F L OFFICE 850.231.7896 | LAFLORIDA.COM

Bon appétit!

Visit Shou Sugi Ban House in Montauk for more incredible dishes by Chef Mads Refslund and his team. Head to ShouSugiBanHouse.com to learn more or book a stay. Photo by Fredrika Stjärne

Bon appétit! THE ESSENCE OF LIFE

These aren’t your average street tacos. Shou Sugi Ban House, a wellness retreat in Montauk, New York, just minutes from the Hamptons, is blending clean eating with visual plated masterpieces. Shou Sugi’s culinary program is headed by Michelin-starred Chef Mads Refslund (cofounder of Noma, one of the most coveted restaurants on the planet), who ensures each dish is expertly crafted with high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. Dine and be inspired by seasonal plates like these vegetable tacos with whole roasted cauliflower and black garlic, zucchini flatbread with pumpkin seed butter, and kombu-cured rainbow trout.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 23

Bon appétit! T H E

E V O L U T I O N

O F

R A W

J U I C Y

Honestly

Organic

Raw & Juicy founder/owner Jenifer Kuntz with her rescue pup, Bosco 24 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

JORDAN

Jen at Raw & Juicy in Alys Beach, Florida

S TAG G S

PHOTOGRAPHY

ROMONA

ROBBINS

“I want to help farmers get their food out of the fields and onto our tables,” says Jenifer Kuntz, the owner and visionary of Raw & Juicy organic juice bar and café in Alys Beach, Florida. “In the end, it comes down to what the market demands. Raw & Juicy is here because our community demands good, wholesome food.”

Twenty years after landing on the Gulf Coast of Florida amid white-sand beaches, flatwoods trails, and rare coastal dune lakes, Kuntz is happy to have found a home for her nature-loving self and a warm reception for her thoughtful business. Kuntz opened Raw & Juicy in 2008 in her remodeled 1966 Land Yacht Airstream along Seaside’s Airstream Row on Scenic Highway 30-A. The café and its culinary team became local and visitor favorites. “We introduced organic and seasonal food as a way of eating and put vegan and vegetarian food on the map on 30-A,” she says. “We also introduced raw food and acai bowls to the area in 2008—until the farm we bought from in Brazil couldn’t keep up with our demand and ran out of acai!” They’ve since found another source. The café’s efforts inspired other local businesses to carry grass-fed beef and offer vegan options, cultivating an artisan food culture that has since blossomed exponentially. Kuntz led the revival of the Saturday farmers’ market in Seaside, Florida, harking back to the New Urbanist town’s early days. “Seaside cofounder Daryl Davis taught me the power of incubating business through the farmers’ market, as she did with the original market in 1981. We are honored to have helped foster the growth of many nowthriving local purveyors and restaurants.” These include Black Bear Bread Co., Chanticleer Eatery, JC’s Gourmet, Sweet Henrietta’s, Noli South, and NaturBaker. The success of the Seaside Farmers Market inspired farmers’ markets throughout South Walton, preserving farmland and educating people on the importance of connecting to their food, local farmers, and the seasons.

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 25

Bon appétit!

”

We introduced organic and seasonal food as a way of eating and put vegan and vegetarian food on the map on 30-A. In 2019, the iconic 30-A eatery moved to an equally iconic location in nearby Alys Beach, the former home of Fonville Press (which has since reopened just down the street). With a beautiful outdoor dining space and sidewalk café tables, the local favorite has been a perfect addition to the town, holding bespoke farm-to-table wine dinners and hosting events for the 30A Wine Festival and 30A Songwriters Festival. The café menu includes delicious breakfast items, such as organic coffee, avocado toast, and omelets. Lunch offerings keep visitors coming back for more with a delicious lentil-beet burger, open-faced sandwiches, and a savory kale salad. Dinner is a relatively new offering, available Thursdays through Saturdays by reservation—to accommodate the harvesting of fresh ingredients and menu creation by Chef Michael Sichel. “Since our inception, Raw & Juicy has been dedicated to local, fresh ingredients,” Kuntz shares. “Building on that dedication, we’re excited to welcome guests for dinner service, curated by Chef Michael in collaboration with local and regional farmers and fishermen.” Sichel’s pedigree working in New York restaurants, Auberge du Soleil and The French Laundry in California, and Galatoire’s in New Orleans—in addition to being a trained sommelier and a Top Chef contestant—makes him an invaluable asset to the restaurant. The restaurant partners with makers of clean, organic wines, such as Kokomo and Breaking Bread, creating a wellrounded, flavorful experience with dishes guests can feel good about eating. “It’s been a great collaboration with Chef Michael because we needed each other to do what we’re doing,” says Kuntz. “I really wanted to do farm-to-table dinners, but it’s also about creating community. The menu changes weekly, and we try to ensure everything is as fresh as possible.” She says people often start to chat between tables at the dinner events, discussing the food and philosophy behind the menus. 26 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

But dinner isn’t the only addition to Raw & Juicy’s offerings in 2023. The café recently expanded to a second location in the quaint community of Grayton Beach, Florida, just a few miles down Scenic Highway 30-A. Kuntz says that taking over the small diner inside the Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse bed-and-breakfast is a dream come true, as it allows her to reconnect with clients on the west end of 30-A. “We’re doing a similar menu in Grayton, and Chef Michael wants to host some dinners over here in the backyard, so we’ll have extended café hours and events.” Wendy Mignot, owner and designer of one-of-a-kind pearl-and-leather jewelry and accessories formerly in Seaside, also reopened at Hibiscus, rounding out the space.

The wellness industry is booming, and while Raw & Juicy has sold clean, organic body and homewares in addition to its fresh-pressed juices, a new evolution is in the works for its lifestyle products. Kuntz and her team are excited to announce they are reworking their branding and packaging for these products under the auspices of Raw & Juicy starting in 2024. “We found that our original brand really lent itself to a very early-morning vibe,” she explains. “The logo was pretty poppy, designed to go with the Airstream and everything, so we’re elevating it to give more of an evening, upscale, luxury vibe. We’re doing a lot of private events and wedding dinners in Alys Beach and collaborating with CC.Boone on event planning, so this new branding helps us push into that space instead of being so breakfast and lunch oriented.” A membership program is also in the works, which guests can join for free shipping, quarterly gifts, and more, helping loyal fans of Raw & Juicy maintain a connection when they’re not at the beach. It’s no wonder the café has accumulated not only a vast following among locals and visitors but also numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the top ten juice bars in the country by USA Today. Kuntz shares proudly, “We had humble beginnings in an Airstream trailer, but inspired by an ideology and some grit, we’ve been able to influence the food and wellness culture of an entire region.”

To learn more, order online, or book a reservation for dinner at Raw & Juicy, visit RawandJuicyLife.com. This story contains excerpts from VIE’s new luxury coffee-table book, COOK: Cocktails, Cuisine, Culture by VIE, which celebrates incredible restaurants, chefs, and designers throughout the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. It is available for purchase at VIEmagazine.com. Contact our publisher, The Idea Boutique, at TheIdeaBoutique.com for more information or wholesale book orders. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 27

Bon appétit!

Lacto-Fermented Meyer Lemons By Raw & Juicy

Ingredients •

10 Meyer lemons (enough to fill a quart jar when squished)

•

1–2 tablespoons Himalayan sea salt

Directions Quarter 8 to 10 Meyer lemons from the top to the bottom and push them lightly toward the bottom of a quart jar to release some juice. Add a tablespoon of sea salt and continue to work the lemons lightly—do not press them too much, or you will release the oils from the rind and cause the ferment to become bitter. You want the jar to be full to the top with lemons packed close together and the brine just above the lemons. If you do not have enough brine in the jar to cover the lemons, you’ll need to make one by adding warm water and sea salt to a jar. Once the salt dissolves, add enough of the salt brine to the natural lemon juice brine to cover the lemons completely. The brine should be ⅛ of an inch below the lid. Place the lid on the jar and leave it in a warm place out of direct sunlight for 2 weeks or more. You can check your lemons for desired taste and flavor; the longer they sit, the more flavorful they’ll become. Once fermented, these lemons become a probiotic powerhouse. Add the juice to warm water in the morning as a liver tonic, or enjoy the rind by removing the pith and chopping to top desserts ( flan), put in smoothies, or enjoy on a salad. Place on fish, use in meat dishes, or dehydrate and turn into nourishing dust to create sauces. 28 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

Antioxidant Smoothie By Raw & Juicy

Ingredients •

1 frozen banana

•

½ cup frozen strawberries

•

½ cup frozen blueberries

•

1 slice fermented lemon rind

•

2 tablespoons goji berries

•

1 tablespoon maqui berry

•

1–2 cups milk of choice or water

•

Pinch of Himalayan sea salt

Directions Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender, blend until creamy, and enjoy! V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 29

Petite pause

Sunsets are proof that no matter what happens, every day can end beautifully. —KRISTEN BUTLER 30 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

“Basking on the secluded shores of an eighteen-thousand-acre nature reserve, Amanyara’s lush tropical pavilions and villas overlook half a mile of white sand beaches and the turquoise waters of the North West Point Marine National Park in Providenciales,” say the luxury accommodations masters at Aman Group. “A retreat for all ages, the resort offers restorative wellness and endless possibilities for discovery above and below the waves.” This Turks and Caicos destination recently reopened after its seasonal closure and boasts renovated areas and amenities throughout the property. It’s time to discover the ultimate relaxation within the beauty of nature. Visit Aman.com to learn more or book a stay. Photo courtesy of Amanyara

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 31

Bon appétit!

Oat Haus cofounder Ali Bonar

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li Bonar, the CEO and trailblazer behind Oat Haus, is not afraid to challenge convention, beginning with your favorite spread. Her journey started with innovating in her kitchen, seeking a nut-free alternative that tasted better than conventional seed-based butter spreads. After many test batches with the support of her cofounders, Eric Katz and Ari Schraer, the Oat Haus team perfected the irresistible Granola Butter, an oat-based spread that’s (dare I say) more addictive than a good spoonful of peanut butter. Think of a nostalgic graham cracker taste with dozens of ways to spread, eat by the spoonful, or use for baking—crafted with completely clean and allergen-free ingredients. But she didn’t stop there: she candidly shared her journey of overcoming her eating disorder with her community on social media, even in the high-stakes environment of her pitch on ABC’s Shark Tank. From dying her hair pink to most recently relocating to Cincinnati, Ohio, for Oat Haus’s new warehouse, Bonar tackles each goal with an open-hearted spirit. She brings this same energy to the interview below: read on for insights on authentic entrepreneurship and tapping into your most vibrant self with the one and only Granola Butter Queen. Interview by Hailey Bethke Photography courtesy of Granola Butter® V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 33

Bon appétit!

FINDING THE MAGIC IN THE MUNDANE IS ESSENTIAL .

VIE: Tell our readers what Granola Butter is and why you started Oat Haus! We would love for you to share your thoughts on the importance of creating a fun product that tastes good and is made with the highest-quality ingredients. Ali Bonar: Granola Butter is the world’s first oat-based spread—it has the spreadable texture of nut butter but is made of oats, so it’s 100 percent nut-free! Granola Butter comes in tantalizing flavors like brownie batter, cookie dough, birthday cake, and more. The idea came from my eating disorder recovery, so bringing fun and play to food is really important to us. We like to say it “just so happens to be healthy”—we want people to take a bite and say, “Wow! This tastes so good, I can’t believe this is made with nutrient-dense ingredients.” VIE: What is a struggle you’ve navigated related to spirituality, health, or wellness and a tool you used to help heal? AB: I struggled with food for over a decade—and finally sought professional help in 2016. I think working with a professional is so important, whether that be a therapist, psychiatrist, or dietitian. I don’t work with anyone anymore, but I couldn’t have gotten to where I am today without them. VIE: Tell us about your Shark Tank debut! What did prepping for the show look like, and what were your biggest takeaways from that experience? AB: Shark Tank was such a surreal experience. I grew up watching the show, and never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be on it. Prepping involved lots of flashcards! You have no idea what the Sharks will ask you, so I had to know every little thing about our business, especially the financial side. My biggest takeaway is that vulnerability is strength—in the episode, I shared about my eating disorder 34 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

recovery and was flooded with positive messages afterward. I think it was the first time someone had opened up about something like that on Shark Tank, and it was an honor to help others feel less alone. VIE: What was it like overcoming your eating disorder and rebuilding your relationship with food? AB: It did not happen overnight. There were (and continue to be) so many ups and downs! But the downs become few and far between. It felt like I was peeling away layers—unlearning so many toxic behaviors and getting back to who I was before the disorder. The beginning was the most challenging because I was putting in all this work and didn’t see any reward. But over time, I’d have these little glimmers of hope and moments where I recognized, “Wow—I’m making progress!” Fast-forward to now: I rarely think about food. I have a healthy relationship with it and am so grateful for that. But I also know I put the work in. It wasn’t handed to me. VIE: What does living a vibrant, healthy life look and feel like to you? AB: I used to think it was adaptogens, powders, and potions. But I’ve changed my tune—I think having a strong sense of community is the healthiest thing of all. When I was deep in my disorder, I was eating the cleanest I’ve ever eaten. But I was isolated. I didn’t have any friends, and I rarely went out. I was

RAPID-FIRE QUESTIONS WITH ALI BONAR Advice you would give to your twenty-year-old self: Follow your intuition. Listen to your internal voice, not what you “think” you should do. One thing that will always make you laugh: Silly TikToks my brother sends me Favorite form of movement: Walking in nature so unhappy! Loosen the grip, eat the Doritos—and don’t forget to play. I think that is where true wellness lies, not in the rigidity. VIE: What is one health or wellness ritual that you never skip, no matter how busy life gets? AB: Moving my body. It can just be a ten-minute walk! Getting my blood flowing and getting fresh air can change my mental state in an incredible way. VIE: Name one challenge you’ve experienced that people might not guess from your life on social media or your success with Oat Haus. AB: I’m incredibly hard on myself, and it’s something I’m currently working on. It’s difficult for me to celebrate my wins. When we launched Granola Butter in Target nationwide, I felt more depressed and anxious than I had ever felt—because all I could think about was everything we now had to do to succeed there. Goals also have this weird way of normalizing—so something that seemed absolutely incredible when we started the business (like launching in Target) suddenly becomes normal, expected, or less exciting. But I know feeling proud of myself is important, so I’m working on that.

A simple joy you experience in your daily routine: Cuddling with my dog, Squishy Favorite sweet or salty treat: A pretzel dipped in Granola Butter—sweet and salty! Ideal weekend destination: Miami, Florida Something you’re proud of: Moments where I did the hard thing, but the right thing If you weren’t running Oat Haus, you would be: Working in the field of psychedelics

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Bon appétit! VIE: What is one of your talents that lies deeper than what meets the eye? AB: I have a fantastic bullshit radar. Over the years, I’ve finetuned listening to my intuition, and it’s never steered me wrong. I can’t explain it, but I can feel when a person or business deal is not aligned. It’s not always easy—something will seem right on paper, but I know in my gut it’s not correct, and that’s hard. I’ve had times where I didn’t listen to my intuition and regretted it later. VIE: What are some tips or insights for finding balance and prioritizing joy? How do you prioritize your relationships and business while holding space for yourself to rest and reflect?

AB: Finding the magic in the mundane is essential. Hitting milestone goals is great, but how can I enjoy this random Monday afternoon? Also—infusing more pleasure into my day helps. It can be little things: admiring flowers on my walk or picking up a little treat at Starbucks on the way to work. I spent many years grinding. And while it’s necessary to work hard when building a business, you can also have fun and play while you do it. VIE: What are some of your favorite Oat Haus products and flavors? AB: Our brownie batter at Target is absolutely otherworldly. Try to limit yourself to just a spoonful—I dare you!

Follow Ali Bonar on Instagram @alibonar and the business @oat.haus or www.Oat.haus.

JOI N US for

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ND T O H Y E

Bon appétit!

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Hailey Bethke

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ARRAE IS WHAT I LIKE TO REFER TO AS THE “COOL GIRL” SUPPLEMENT COMPANY. FROM LUXURIOUS BRANDING TO SIMPLIFIED, SYMPTOM-BASED LABELING, CONSUMERS CAN NOW AVOID THE OVERWHELMING TASK OF NAVIGATING THE SUPPLEMENT AISLE AT THEIR LOCAL GROCERY STORE.

Siffat Haider, CEO and cofounder of Arrae

hink gorgeous packaging with simple labeling like “Bloat” or “Calm” so you can easily self-diagnose which product is best for you. They’re made only with the highest-quality ingredients and no extra preservatives. Most of us have experienced gut issues, heartburn, sleep struggles, or stress, but we often avoid these topics in conversation. Arrae is changing this narrative by offering customers a new story to feel more empowered in their health journeys: taking your supplements at the dinner table can feel supportive, not shameful. “I struggled with immune system issues for most of my life,” begins Siffat Haider, the CEO and cofounder of Arrae. “As I was navigating my early twenties, I ended up fracturing a rib from a chronic cough. When I went to see my doctor, I was prescribed codeine and essentially got sent home with no further plan of action. At that point, I decided to look into the holistic world—even though I was skeptical. The wellness industry back then was not accessible or cool among my peers, so it was just me researching on my own. As I began to make adjustments using natural approaches, I realized how much better I felt. I began using natural products, testing ingredients on myself, and slowly, my friends began coming to me for health advice.” Haider explains, “I had a major epiphany and questioned why the supplement space was so difficult to navigate. As a consumer, I can walk into Sephora and easily find whatever I need for dark circles, acne, or hyperpigmentation—it’s all results-oriented, beautifully packaged, and formulated by experts. But the whole supplement world was hard to understand and convoluted; most consumers didn’t even fully understand what they were taking and why. That’s why we started Arrae: to create 100 percent natural, targeted supplements that are results-oriented and chic. Issues like bloating and heartburn aren’t necessarily sexy, but we wanted to take the taboo out of it to open more space for conversation.”

MADE ONLY WITH THE HIGHEST-QUALITY INGREDIENTS AND NO EXTRA PRESERVATIVES.

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Bon appétit! he supplement world is hard to navigate for those new to the space, so I asked Haider to share common misconceptions and the importance of clean formulation. Using her insider perspective as an industry expert, she shared various tips to use next time you wonder what supplement to take. “The most common things you should be adding to your supplement routine are vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin C for immunity,” she says. “You want to build a routine specific to you, which I recommend doing with a certified health practitioner. People will see their favorite influencers using a long laundry list of products and go and buy the same things. But you need to zoom in on why they are actually using what they’re using.” She continues, “For example, if you’re using berberine, know that it helps with blood glucose control. Don’t use supplements because they’re trendy. Make sure your supplements are GMP certified (good manufacturing practices), look out for allergens and additives, and beware of supplements with dozens of ingredients. Supplements with fewer ingredients ensure they are more potent because each ingredient requires a certain dosage to have an impact.”

journaling sessions. I also don’t make any social plans on Sunday; if something comes up, I always say no unless it’s something important, like a friend’s birthday. Nowadays, we are always on overdrive because we experience overstimulation in every area of our lives, from work to technology, school, and social commitments. Taking a day to move more into the parasympathetic system helps counteract that. This has helped with everything from my HRV (heart rate vulnerability) levels to my quality of sleep and resting heart rate throughout the week.” When asked how she leans into change as an entrepreneur, Haider explains, “As a founder, you have to be extremely nimble and not be attached to any outcome. It’s second nature to me that we could be doing one thing and then abandoning it and completely changing course the next day if that’s what’s best for the business.” The ability to pivot and adapt has fueled her passion for stoicism, a philosophy that dates back to the Hellenistic age in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. “I am a very stoic person—which is a learned skill, not something I was born with. I don’t take things personally and try not to let anything ruffle my feathers. Life will always throw stuff at us: from work to school and relationships, there is no end to the unexpected.”

“I TAKE A DAY FOR INTENTIONAL REST AND DO THINGS TO NOURISH AND CENTER ME.”

Arrae products are formulated to be completely clean, with minerals, vitamins, and herbs placed inside a vegetable capsule to avoid unnecessary additives. They also contain minimal ingredients, so you can feel the incredible properties of the product and focus on supporting your body. “Our products are very targeted, so there’s no confusion as to why you should be taking certain things. If you don’t have heartburn, don’t take our Heartburn capsules,” Haider explains. “I’m not here trying to sell you every problem aid we carry; I’m here to support customers in solving these issues. If you don’t experience any of these struggles, that’s great! But if you do, our team is here to guide you in achieving your most optimal state of health.” Haider is also a huge proponent for what she calls a “parasympathetic day” to truly reset for the week. So many of us are still tapped into work and stress on our weekends (aka still using the sympathetic part of our nervous system). After experiencing burnout in her own life, she decided to make Sundays a day dedicated to rest and rejuvenation. “I take a day for intentional rest and do things to nourish and center me, such as going on a long walk, minimizing social media consumption, morning meditations, avoiding scary television shows, reading, and

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She recalls, “I remember one time something had happened at work, and I called my dad crying. He is an entrepreneur himself. He listened and then told me, ‘When you decided to be an entrepreneur, this is what you signed up for. Change, uncertainty, navigating challenges—this is all part of your job description. So why are you crying?’ That moment made me realize that I can’t let things impact me so easily because one hundred things go ‘wrong’ every day when you’re an entrepreneur. You are certainly allowed to have bad days, but now I know that struggles are part of life, which builds character and an ability to overcome adversity. Life never gives me anything I can’t handle, and there is always a lesson to take away from every situation.” Not ready for this conversation to end? Read on for some bite-sized pieces of wisdom from Haider!

To connect with Haider and the Arrae team, follow along on social media @siffhaider @arrae.co and @thedreambiggerpodcast, and head to Arrae.com to find your new go-to supplement.

ADVICE COLUMN with SIFF HAIDER THREE NON-NEGOTIABLES IN YOUR WELLNESS ROUTINE: • Getting outside for a morning walk. I listen to a book or a podcast while I’m out!

• I also love journaling; you can find prompts if you’re new, focus on gratitude, or just write what’s on your mind. I’ve been journaling since 2015, and it has changed my disposition.

• I also love lifting heavy weights at the gym—it’s great for my mental health and makes me feel powerful.

ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO READERS IN THEIR TWENTIES WHO ARE NAVIGATING CAREER CHOICES: Your twenties are for experimentation. When I was about to graduate from college, I felt like I needed to have everything figured out. I thought I knew what I wanted, but I switched career paths about four times before I started Arrae–from pre-law to thinking I wanted to go culinary school to my job working in public relations and then at Elle magazine, these experiences taught me the importance of giving yourself the grace and space to pivot.

WHAT ARE SOME FAVORITE EPISODES FROM YOUR PODCAST, DREAM BIGGER? Maggie and Lauryn are both good friends of mine, and it’s so easy to have the conversation flow! These two episodes are recent favorites:

• “Maggie Sellers, Angel Investor: How to Angel Invest, Angel Investing vs Venture Capital, How to Fundraise for Your Company, Growing Your Platform & More”

• “Lauryn Bosstick aka The Skinny Confidential: Reaching Your Fullest Potential,

Being an Investor, First Ever Arrae x The Skinny Confidential Product & More”

• Or tune in for my entire interview with Hailey Bethke on Episode 38 of The Sunshine Signal podcast at TheSunshineSignal.com/blog/arrae!

WHAT SCARES YOU? Honestly, I can’t say that I’m afraid of

FAVORITE ARRAE PRODUCT: The Le Depuff Drops

anything anymore. Unexpected things are thrown my way, our business has been in operation for almost four years, I have had near-death experiences, and overall, I have dealt with a lot of adversity in my life. It has taken me many years to build self-trust, but my biggest takeaway is this: life is too short, and you can’t be afraid of things. I’m not going to live my life trying to please other people or limit myself because of insecurities.

from our collaboration with Lauryn Bosstick from The Skinny Confidential. They are very limited edition; I add them to my water every morning, and they are delicious and detoxifying, giving your digestive system that extra boost. The Bloat capsules are also the product we are best known for, so you can’t go wrong with either of those!

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L’intermission

Good for the Body & Soul Visit StillWatersWellness.glossgenius.com to learn more or book a treatment with Mindy Norris. Photo courtesy of Still Waters Aesthetics and Wellness

Skincare meets sensuality at Still Waters Aesthetics and Wellness in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Esthetician Mindy Norris begins by guiding clients through a gratifying sensory journey to center their minds and ground their bodies. The sensations continue as she honors the skin through a customized ritual of steams, masks, dermaplaning, and intentional massage. A truly heavenly experience that bridges the physical and the spiritual realms, this elevated facial is key to offering yourself extra self-love and unlocking your inner radiance.

Love, VIE xo V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 43

C O NV E R SAT IO NS with H E A RT & S O U L with LISA MARIE BURWELL Founder and EIC of VIE magazine

S E AS O N 3 NOW STREAMING

Listen on Spotify | Watch on YouTube | Subscribe on iTunes | viemagazine.com @V IE SP E A K S | @V IEM AGA ZINE

FEATURING NEW GUESTS AND GREAT NEW CONVERSATIONS MARISOL GULLO • VICKY TIEL • JEFF ZEHNDER • APRIL SARVER • KARAH YOUNG & KATE MCMILLIAN • JIM SHIRLEY MELANIE TURNER • JENNIFER STEELE • JOHN WELLBORN • RHEA GOFF • PATRICK DAVIS • MADRA MCDONALD DEREK MCMAHON • MATT ALGARIN & KELLI CARTER • ARIX ZALACE & SEAN COUCH • MISTY PARENZAN • KURT TOBIAS

La vitalité

La vitalité A ZEST FOR LIFE

Visit StandardHotels.com/miami to learn more or book your stay, spa treatment, or dining reservation at The Standard in Miami Beach. Photo courtesy of The Standard

You may love Miami for its vibrant nightlife and culture, but The Standard Spa is also pioneering the city’s wellness scene. Its extensive list of services includes the most-loved detox massages to reset your body from stress and strain. It also offers innovative treatments like the Onsen Ritual, a whole sensory experience complete with a yuzu mimosa sea-algae body cleanse and bamboo scrub before ending with a deep tissue massage and meditation. Outside of bodywork, The Standard offers astrology and ayurvedic consultations, plus workshops on topics ranging from lucid dreaming to alchemy energy activation.

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La vitalité H E A LT H T I P S F R O M A N A L I G N E D E N T R E P R E N E U R

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Vitality

BY HAILEY BETHKE

HEALTH PRODUCTS REST ON TIMELESS VIRTUES: THEY SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE AND CLEAN AND ALLOW US TO FEEL EMPOWERED IN OUR BODIES.

he COO and cofounder of Cymbiotika, Durana Elmi, believes good health is the foundation for longevity and happiness. Most supplements and personal care products on the market are contaminated with harmful chemicals and artificial ingredients, posing long-term risks to our overall well-being. To ensure her family was not unnecessarily exposed to chemicals that could jeopardize their health, Elmi founded Cymbiotika, a modern health brand offering high-quality, potent products. From Liposomal Vitamin C for immune support to Super Greens to support the body’s detoxification process, Cymbiotika products are centric to optimized living and vitality. PHOTOGRAPHY

An Afghan immigrant, Elmi shares that she firmly believes in living a life of purpose and giving back to those in need. “I have never let go of my roots or forgotten my homeland,” she shares. “I faced many hardships growing up but always found new ways to overcome these challenges. After coming to the United States, I climbed the corporate ladder and became the director of marketing at AT&T. With my invaluable experience and business skills, I decided to change course and pursue my passion for health and wellness. Shortly after, I founded Cymbiotika, and we are now able to help millions of people around the world take ownership of their health.”

COURTESY

CYMBIOTIKA V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 47

La vitalité

IT’S ABOUT LEARNING F R O M FA I L U R E S A N D C E L E B R AT I N G V I C TO R I E S , N O M AT T E R H OW S M A L L . leader, I prioritize my health and well-being because taking care of myself enables me to better care for my family, business, and employees.”

Above: Cymbiotika COO/cofounder Durana Elmi

hen asked how real health is ingrained in every aspect of Cymbiotika’s business model, Elmi shares that intentional formulation and clear purpose are essential. In other words, the Cymbiotika team values clean ingredients and no junk, so that’s what manifests in the final product. “We believe in a holistic approach to health that encompasses every facet of life, from your diet to the air you breathe, the products in your home, and the care you give to your skin,” she offers. “Cymbiotika represents the fusion of our passion for wellness and living a healthy lifestyle.” Cymbiotika first developed The Omega, a supplement product that contains DHA, a critical nutrient for our brain, eyes, and central nervous system. “DHA traditionally comes from fish, although the fish do not produce DHA themselves,” Elmi explains. “They absorb the omegas from the algae they consume, which we extract for a purer, plant-based, eco-friendly source that is sustainable for the environment. Since using algae as our source of DHA, we’ve saved over twentythree million fish!” Today, Cymbiotika has a complete supplement line of over thirty-six products free from additives, toxins, fillers, and preservatives. We asked Elmi her opinion on health trends and her non-negotiable daily habits. “Personally, I don’t follow health trends; I prefer to stick to practices that have stood the test of time,” she begins. “I firmly believe integrating daily movement and meditation into my life is valuable. As a full-time mom, entrepreneur, and

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Her morning routine is a consistent staple she can always rely on to set her up for daily success and confidently meet challenges thrown her way. “Every morning, I’ll take my supplements. I love adding Super Greens to my green juice. It gives me a boost of energy and a feeling of vitality. Then, I’ll take Glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that combats premature aging and reduces oxidative stress. Throughout my day, I make it a point to incorporate regular breaks because it’s important to take a moment to pause and breathe deeply. Whether it involves an outdoor walk or a quick HIIT workout, I ensure that I engage in some movement every day.” Elmi credits her childhood in Afghanistan for how she built such a remarkable foundation of self-trust and success as an entrepreneur. “I rely a lot on my intuition and inner strength,” she explains. “During moments when all hope seemed lost, I knew I had to find a way—and I always did. It’s about learning from failures and celebrating victories, no matter how small.” “Afghanistan was a very scary place to grow up in,” Elmi recalls. “I remember the confinements of my home, and endless restrictions also took a toll on me. I also grew up with a very strict father. Sometimes, when you have a strict parent, you can go in one of two directions: self-destruct or use that hardship to make something of yourself. During that time in my life, when I felt trapped, I eventually realized my father meant well. I realized he had a different upbringing and different values. I also realized that I wanted to become wildly successful and independent.

RAPID-FIRE FACTS WITH DURANA ELMI Favorite mantra: “The only thing that controls you is your thoughts.” My strict upbringing propelled me to get where I am today. I studied hard to get into UCLA; from there, I dedicated myself to becoming the businesswoman I am today.” She emphasizes, “I really believe every hardship happens for a reason—to help you learn more about yourself or prepare you for what’s to come in the future. I am incredibly grateful for my past because I am now a positive product of my hardships. I feel I can endure anything because of what I went through. I am very motivated to overcome all that comes my way and pave the way for my daughters.” Elmi has undoubtedly been a change maker in the wellness space, both externally and within her company. The Cymbiotika team comprises 67 percent female employees, and 71 percent of the directors are female. “I will always continue to nurture and empower the female workplace. It’s a blessing to be surrounded by so many creative, intelligent, and

resilient women,” she shares. “We will always pave the way for more women to achieve their dreams, regardless of societal expectations or limitations.” Elmi’s diverse life experiences have trained her to become an expert at overcoming adversity. Her tip to encourage others to do the same is to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. “It’s about maintaining a mindset that welcomes difficulty as a chance to learn, adapt, and evolve. Be bold enough to invest in your thoughts, self, business, and those around you. Don’t be afraid to fail. In business, in life, in relationships—just go for it! If it doesn’t work, dust yourself off and try something else. Whatever you do, go all in!”

To connect with Elmi and the Cymbiotika team, head to Cymbiotika.com and follow along on social platforms @cymbiotika and @duranaelmi.

One piece of advice you would give your daughters: Always remember true beauty shines from within, and kindness is one of the most beautiful things a person can possess. Being kind to others and having a good heart will make you radiate beauty in a way that goes far beyond appearances. A life-changing book: Obstacles Welcome by Ralph de la Vega One thing that will always make you laugh: My husband’s sense of humor Favorite sweet treat to indulge in: I love wine over sweets any day Favorite Cymbiotika products: Super Greens, Vitamin C, and Glutathione! Favorite form of movement: HIIT workouts A simple joy you experience in your daily routine: Spending quality time with my daughters! V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 49

La vitalité

Holistic

Health Herbalism and 50 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

BY H A I L E Y B E T H K E | P H OTO G R A P H Y C O U RT E SY O F O R G A N I C O L I V I A livia Amitrano, herbalist, entrepreneur, podcaster, and founder of Organic Olivia, is bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern needs. She believes holistic health and the inherently medicinal properties of plants can support us in healing from the inside out. Western medicine and herbalist remedies need not be at war; together, Amitrano feels these systems can mutually support the healing process and empower us to operate from a place of optimized health.

reached a breaking point and tried seeing an acupuncturist/herbalist, even though I grew up quite close-minded to “alternative” medicine. I knew there had to be an answer, a reason why I struggled with a picture of symptoms that my peers did not and why my body seemed to be far more sensitive and reactive than those around me. My body was clearly speaking to me, and I finally found out that my gut microbiome was sorely imbalanced. Because the gut-skin and gut-brain axes are so powerful, my digestion, skin, and mental health were directly affected by the dysbiosis of my intestinal ecology.

Through the heart-centered narrative below, Amitrano shares her journey to becoming a certified herbalist and her favorite approaches for healing the body, mind, and soul. Herbalism is not something to be afraid of, and her suggestions will help you integrate plant remedies into your life without stress or feeling overwhelmed.

That herbalist sent me home with pungent capsules and earth-flavored potions I had never heard of to treat the overgrowths within my gut and support my liver and elimination organs as I embarked on this herbal protocol. Within two weeks, my stomach pain, cystic acne lesions, and mood improved more than with any intervention before—despite the countless medications I had tried. From that

VIE: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START ORGANIC OLIVIA AND YOUR PODCAST, WHAT’S THE JUICE? OLIVIA AMITRANO: Growing up, I had a variety of health issues that hit a peak in my teenage years. I struggled with severe IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and relied on antispasmodic medications to make it through the day. I also had cystic acne and struggled with anxiety that deeply affected my quality of life. I began to notice that whenever I had an IBS flare, I’d also see an increase in breakouts and anxiousness—and vice versa: when I’d take an antibiotic to treat my acne, suddenly (albeit temporarily), my digestion and mental health would improve. This connection is known as “holistic” health, the notion that all systems of the body are interconnected, and seemingly unrelated symptoms can be traced to a deeper root cause. After being told by doctors and specialists there was no way my symptoms were connected (and that food had nothing to do with my digestive complaints), I

time, “wellness” wasn’t a thing, and “influencers” didn’t exist; the supplement industry went about as far as Dr. Oz on TV, and there was a huge gap in true, compassionate education surrounding natural healing modalities, dietary therapies, and plant medicines. I blogged daily about different herbs, emerging research on the gut microbiome, how to support detoxification and reduce exposure to environmental toxins, the importance of healthy fats and nutrition, the science behind lifestyle changes and exercise, and more. People resonated with the information, and I saw a major thirst for knowledge. As a country, we were (and still are) genuinely struggling with chronic illness and need not just the what but the “why” behind tools that can help. I have been through it and know how difficult it is to feel like your body is turning on you. In reality, your body needs the right conditions to thrive, and medicine needs to address root causes instead of the band-aid approach we’re often left so frustrated with.

My body was clearly speaking to me day on, I set out to learn about nutrition, herbs, and integrative tools that could support my body on a root-cause level. Around 2012, I started a blog called Organic Olivia as I dove deeper into herbal medicine and changed my diet to more organic, whole foods. The blog cataloged my journey in real-time: what was working, how, and why. I felt that I couldn’t keep everything I was learning inside—the whole world deserved to have access to the insights that were helping me heal these chronic and debilitating symptoms. At the

I eventually completed a three-year clinical program at Arbor Vitae School of Traditional Herbalism as my blog grew into the company that is now Organic Olivia. I have a line of herbal formulas that I formulate based on the current literature, years of ancient tradition, my personal experience, and what I’ve learned working with clients. Blogging fell a bit out of fashion—people wanted to listen and watch instead of read, so I moved my educational content over to my podcast. My podcast is the heart of my work because I get to stay true to my original mission of sharing information and access to practitioners and insights that can change people’s lives. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 51

La vitalité VIE: SHARE A STRUGGLE YOU HAVE NAVIGATED RELATED TO PERSONAL GROWTH OR THE WELLNESS SPACE. WHAT TOOLS DID YOU USE TO HELP HEAL, AND WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? OA: Something I struggled with until my very late twenties (thank you to the painful lessons of my Saturn Return) was low self-esteem, which caused me to be a bit self-centered in an attempt to protect my (quite fragile) sense of self. When you grow up in a chaotic household and have dysfunctional relationships with your caregivers—which many of us have experienced in some way, especially if your parents struggled with their mental health and didn’t have the tools we have today—your sense of inherent worth and identity can be so low and inconsistent, you end up seeking external validation to fill that void. You may turn to people-pleasing, but not in the “I just care so much about others” way that we think people-pleasing stems from. Instead, it may be in an “If I self-sacrifice, maybe they’ll have to like me” subconsciously egoic way that is at the core of this behavior. For a long time, I struggled with what I thought was social anxiety—until I realized this anxiety was all about worrying if others liked me or approved of me. I felt I had to perform, to be the most exciting person in the room, until I learned that the most interesting thing about you is the interest you take in other people—the way you listen, ask questions, engage, and connect from a place of genuine curiosity and care. It’s not about you but the depth of connection and relationship you can foster with others. I thought the self-esteem I didn’t have could magically be built if others felt I was worthy; if only I could be successful, that would prove to myself and the world that I have worth, right? And yet, I finally learned that self-esteem cannot be transferred to you from

an external source. No amount of followers, likes, pats on the back, friends, achievements, or accomplishments can give you what having a solid character, sticking by your word, showing up for yourself and others, and giving a **** about the world around you can. I found that self-esteem comes from estimable acts: following through when you say you will, having the courage and respect to be honest with those you love even if it’s difficult, going out of your way to be kind when no one will ever know it, working toward a mission greater than yourself, and doing the tiny, monotonous things each day that feel like nothing at the time but add up to self-respect through discipline and integrity. Tools that helped me with this are psilocybin (psychedelic-assisted therapy, which can soon be done under the guidance of a practitioner legally in New York!), the book The Courage to Be Disliked, and life placing me in really tough situations where my back was against the wall. I had to learn the hard way that being uncomfortable and doing the difficult/right thing makes you feel a lot better than doing the easy/pleasurable thing.

It’s difficult ... working towards a mission greater than yourself.

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VIE: WE WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO INTRODUCE OUR AUDIENCE TO HERBALISM; PLEASE SHARE WHY THIS MEDICINE IS NOT AS SCARY OR “WOO-WOO” AS SOME MAY THINK. OA: Herbalism (the practice of herbal medicine) is the study of botany and the use of plants intended for medicinal purposes. Herbal medicine involves using plants, seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers in various forms and extractions (powders, capsules, tinctures, infusions, syrups) to support holistic wellness or treat specific conditions and imbalances. Plants have been the basis of medical treatments throughout human history, and thankfully, many traditional medicine systems have been documented and preserved and are still practiced today by over 80 percent of the world. This traditional practice has also informed how we use and develop modern interventions. Modern medicine, or what we know as “Western medicine,” utilizes many plant-derived compounds as the basis for highly effective pharmaceutical drugs. Aspirin, for example, contains the key component salicylic acid, which comes from willow bark, which has long been used to alleviate aches, pains, and fever. There’s also paclitaxel from the Pacific yew tree, which treats lung, ovarian, and breast cancer. Artemisinin from the traditional Chinese plant sweet wormwood can combat malaria. And there are many more. While select active ingredients from the aforementioned plants have been isolated, synthesized, and standardized to serve as modern pharmaceuticals, there are thousands of plants on the face of this earth with medicinal benefits that have not been converted to pharmaceuticals yet still have immense therapeutic value when dosed in the right amounts for the right person. What’s more, when you are utilizing a whole herb versus a synthesized, singular compound, you benefit from the synergy within the whole plant’s many constituents and phytochemicals. Plants can do many things for us physically, psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Adaptogens like ashwagandha, for example, help bolster our resilience in the

face of stress, whether from physical demands or emotionally stressful circumstances. These plants act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, modulating everything from our stress hormone (cortisol) to our beta-endorphin levels to the biosynthesis of ATP (helping us have more energy even when times get tough and we’re overextending). Adaptogens also stimulate our heat shock proteins (the same biochemical magic that happens in a sauna) to enhance the repair of damaged proteins when the body is under oxidative stress and to prevent immune suppression when we’re taxed and depleted. Some plants are antimicrobial—they have strong alkaloid compounds with broad antibacterial activity against everything from H. pylori to E. faecalis (think UTIs!). Some plants are considered “nervines”—they up-regulate calming neurotransmitters like GABA in the brain to decrease anxiety and increase our sense of calm. Others are called “bitters”—plants with fiercely bitter phytochemicals that make you pucker up but stimulate bitter taste receptors built into your tongue that activate your vagus nerve and signal the release of stomach acid and digestive enzymes to support digestion and prevent intestinal discomfort. The true art of herbalism lies in the masterful combination, synergy, and dosage of the right medicinal plants for the right person to successfully target their individual root cause and help their body reach a state of balance. Just like people, herbs work better when they’re in a community, supported and balanced by others that offset what they may be lacking. For example, hundreds of herbs can support digestion; some may be warming, while others are cooling. Some help release gas from the intestines, while others help your gallbladder release bile to ensure you break down, emulsify, and absorb the healthy fats you eat. It’s important to pair a drying herb with a moistening herb so that the overall formulation helps you reach your goals but is neutral in its effect on your state of homeostasis. It gets more complex when formulating for complex conditions; there are multiple factors to address, which is where the help of an herbalist can come in.

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VIE: WHAT IS ONE HEALTH OR WELLNESS RITUAL YOU NEVER SKIP, NO MATTER HOW BUSY LIFE GETS? OA: Eating fermented foods. I always have some form of ferment in my fridge, whether that’s beets, sauerkraut, kimchi, or goat kefir. When grabbing a snack or staring into the abyss of the fridge, I always remember to grab one of these and take a few bites. The difference it makes in maintaining my gut health is night and day—I’m less bloated, my bowels are more regular, and I’m less reactive to a few days of eating off my routine if I’m in a takeout rut from being super busy. Fermented foods make all the difference with their probiotics and post-biotics (aka the end products from the fermentation that the good bugs in these foods carry out). Post-biotics act as anti-inflammatory superstars and help keep your gut lining strong and tight, especially when you’re stressed or consume perhaps some irritating or processed foods your stomach is less-than-happy with. It’s just the easiest thing in the world to do, to add a few bites of fermented foods into your day.

VIE: WHAT DOES LIVING A VIBRANT, HEALTHY LIFE LOOK AND FEEL LIKE TO YOU? OA: A vibrant and healthy life is one where I’m in tune with my rhythms and the rhythms of nature, leaning into the ebb and flow of my energy instead of forcing myself to show up each day as a carbon copy of the one before. I try to go inward in the fall and winter when it comes to the earth’s greater rhythms and honor the proverbial “fall and winter” of my menstrual cycle. I allow myself to open, express, and take action in the spring of my life’s chapters, knowing that a plant can’t bloom all year long and periods of rest and contraction are necessary and healthy; constant productivity comes at an alarming cost. It means setting boundaries in my relationships— honoring my needs and respecting the needs and differences of others without attachment or judgment. I practice speaking my truth in a grounded and compassionate way, holding space when I can and having the confidence to say no when I can’t. It means being of service whenever and wherever I can, whether to my loved ones, community, neighborhood, or the earth. I show up in truth and integrity so that others may do the same. I practice leading by example and offering honest, vulnerable insight and a helping hand. It’s tending 54 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

to the plants and land around me, leaving places and spaces better than I found them physically and energetically, being mindful of the waste I create and how I am conditioned to consume mindlessly—and then choosing to hold everything in divine, high regard. It means being present with what is instead of desiring more, looking people in the eye, deeply listening, and connecting instead of consuming. It looks like taking cues from the pace of the earth, moving as slowly as I need to in order to move with integrity. It’s appreciating the wind, the trees, the sounds around me, the uniqueness of all living things, and catching myself when judging instead of deeply seeing and witnessing. It involves getting out of my comfort zone, looking at the things that are difficult to see—the parts of myself and humanity that need tending and care—having the hard conversations, making the journey out of my bubble, constantly learning and humbling. It means putting people and purpose over profit, art over productivity, and intention over autopilot. It means truly being here, no matter how painful that is sometimes—staying with the pain to feel the joy.

VIE: HOW DO YOU CONNECT WITH YOUR MOST AUTHENTIC AND ALIGNED SELF? HOW DO YOU RETURN TO THAT PLACE WHEN IN AN ENERGETIC FUNK? OA: If you’re feeling out of touch with your authentic self and intuition, you may not be able to hear or know what’s a “yes” for you immediately, but the place to start is your “no.” Usually, our no is far clearer; our bodies clam up and reject the thing that’s not for us or off our path. We’ll have physical signs of discomfort or feel fatigued. When we try to force it and push through doing the thing that’s not in alignment with our authentic selves (whether that’s going out drinking with friends or saying yes to a work opportunity that looks good on paper but isn’t in alignment with our soul’s path), we end up feeling worse, hitting a wall, and can be zapped of our life force and joy. On the other hand, when you are in touch with your authentic self and what a true yes is for you, things will feel light, inspiring, and exciting. It may not be easy—it will require work and focus. Still, doors will open naturally; you’ll receive opportunities by going toward that path, you’ll meet people of the same heart and mission whom you’re meant to co-create with, and synchronicities will appear all around you if you take the time to notice them (some may say coincidence, but some things are just too wild). Being honest is also a beautiful way to connect with your authentic self. Spend plenty of time alone so you can hear your voice and needs. Take yourself on dates, and write in a journal to give yourself a voice and open up a conversation. Be brutally honest about where you can do and be better, where you didn’t act with integrity, who you want to be, and the steps you need to take to get there, reparenting yourself in a sense with gentle discipline and radical honesty. Be honest with others, share when you’re hurting and what you’re going through, paving the way for them to do the same and be mirrored and heard.

know that you probably won’t get an A-plus on checking in with friends or being social that day, but tomorrow is another opportunity. Then, when your friend calls tomorrow mid-breakup and needs a shoulder to cry on, you can be present because you absolutely killed it the day prior and leaned into your rhythms and what was coming through. You can be there for her guilt-free because you were entirely what you needed to be the day prior. For me, having blinders on can be a good thing. Having a lack of balance can actually be a skill. Different days, weeks, months, or years ask totally different things of you. It’s about hearing what that day or moment needs of you, who needs you, what you need from yourself, and going full force—or resting when that’s calling you. You need to contract before you can even think about expanding again. Some days, your business needs you. Some days, your husband or family needs you. Some days, you need not to be needed. All of them are okay, and one is not better than another; your worth is not tied to how you show up in these areas at the same time. It’s about the culmination of how you show up over time, spread out your energy, and call to precisely what needs your attention at the right time. Once you start doing this, people learn that this is how you work; they know you come in waves and deliver when you do, and when you’re quieter or distant, it’s because something good is coming when you’re ready. You have to learn how to respect your workflow and how you uniquely achieve balance and stand in it unapologetically, even if others expect you to be everything to everyone at all times. There’s just no way—it’s impossible!

VIE: WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR FINDING BALANCE AND PRIORITIZING JOY? HOW DO YOU POUR INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIPS AND WORK LIFE WHILE STILL HOLDING SPACE FOR YOURSELF TO REST AND REFLECT? OA: I find balance by resting as much as I work, leaning into my rhythms, and saying no when I’m exhausted. I stop midday to take a bath when I need to, schedule a weekly massage or acupuncture session, and don’t cancel it even if it seems like a meeting is ten times more important—99 percent of the time, it can wait or be moved around on the calendar. I check in with friends and family, call loved ones often, and remind myself there is a whole world outside work. Being productive or successful is only a tiny part of what matters; family and community matter much more. I schedule friend and family time on my calendar like I schedule meetings. I also plan rest time and nights where I do absolutely nothing but watch the Real Housewives and eat gluten-free Oreos. You can only be good at one or two things each day. Some days, you’ll be a really good dog mom, an excellent wife, or a killer CEO. When your brain is in CEO idea mode, lean into it and get as much as you can out of it; juice it until it’s dry and

To connect with Olivia Amitrano, follow her on Instagram @organic_olivia and @shoporganicolivia, tune into the What’s The Juice podcast on all listening platforms, and shop her complete line of herbal formulas on OrganicOlivia.com.

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Petite pause

Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air. —RALPH WALDO EMERSON

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Belmond boasts its secluded Eden in welcoming Anguilla with Cap Juluca resort: “From warm morning sunbathing to hot midnight walks, let the heat linger on with a sojourn this season. A stay with us is an invitation to stroll barefoot on the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean. Luxuriate on the pristine shore and soak up the island’s laid-back charm before sampling epicurean delights at one of our celebrated restaurants. Here, healing energy is served with a good dose of tropical warmth, and eclectic culinary events harmonize with joyful wellness activities. Between blissful mornings and stunning sunsets, your slice of paradise awaits.” Visit Belmond.com/hotels and find Anguilla on the map to book your stay! Photo courtesy of Belmond

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La vitalité BY KAREN RICE

DISCOVERING FAITH,

TRUE BEAUTY, CONFIDENCE W

ithout questioning—that is the way I conquered my diagnosis of cancer twice. When going through a serious illness, you learn to know what faith truly is and find the true meaning of beauty, confidence, and how you really feel about yourself. I know this all too well because I have experienced trials and tribulations in my life. Through it all, I gained strength that I never knew I had and much more confidence in myself, which led me to love myself all over again. I experienced a new beginning all on my own. After going through so much in my life, things were going well until I had a head-on collision with not only breast cancer but also colon cancer, and it changed my entire outlook. I thought I had endured rough years before, but going through cancer was the rest of the iceberg. There is nothing like it. You wonder what you have done so wrong to have this placed upon you. You began asking, “Why me?” Yet, through my tragedies and all that I had to endure, it all became an awakening 58 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

for me, during which I received and gained all the strength and encouragement I needed to conquer it. Through it all—the chemo, the radiation, the pain I endured—not only did I find the true meaning of life, but I still felt beautiful. I found myself looking in the mirror even more during this time because I thought what I was dealing with would change me drastically. But as I viewed the imperfections on my body that I now must live with, over time, it got better. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I embraced it. Whether we are dealing with an illness or any other negative feelings about ourselves, our lives, and our bodies, we need to be our own cheering section. Through all my mishaps, I still feel beautiful, and it is real. I have realized that even going through such a dark time, I still have a life to live, and I will live it to the fullest. When I think of the “gift of life” given to me twice over, I know I did not have a moment to waste. I would never say having or going through cancer is a gift—surviving it and receiving a second and third

chance at life is the gift. Yet, through it all, I did not allow the disease to take away who I am or what I stand for. I am a survivor and an example to show that it can happen. One can go on and look and feel just as beautiful, inside and out, and it shines brighter when you are through the darkness. Through these tragedies, I received and gained all the strength and encouragement I needed to conquer them. True beauty is within, and when you feel beautiful on the inside, it shows so clearly on the outside. I want to spread mine and help others do the same. Just because I had cancer does not mean cancer had me. As women, we should never allow anything or any circum-

TRUE BEAUTY IS WITHIN, AND WHEN YOU FEEL BEAUTIFUL ON THE INSIDE, IT SHOWS SO CLEARLY ON THE OUTSIDE. stance to steal our joy or our self-esteem—even while cancer is taking us through many emotions and many unanswered situations. I know for sure that, with cancer, many times you are too weak to even think about your looks because you don’t feel your best. Through any tragedy, we are and always will be beautiful and unique. Women, we all know that our bodies take lickings, yet we keep on ticking!

best. I am confident in myself, as well as grateful. I am starting over, doing things I should have done before cancer. I recently wrote my third book, Cancer, Yet Cancer Again: But I Will Not Die Before I’m Dead. I titled it that because I genuinely feel that you should not stop living because you have cancer, which is exactly what I almost did. I am a realist, a regular everyday woman who has overcome many obstacles. The scars and mishaps that are now attached to my body due to cancer are symbols of inspiration and hope. I will never be thankful for having cancer, but I’m thankful for some of the struggles I’ve gone through. If I hadn’t, I would not have found my true strengths. I’m not allowing anything to stop me. I am a true example that you can survive cancer not once but twice, provided you get to it in time. I am not saying it will be easy or that all will survive. I am urging you to have faith, fight with all you have, and then hold on. I honestly believe when and if you survive a horrific tragedy or a horrible disease such as cancer, it is for a reason. You have a purpose, and through that purpose, faith, compassion, strength, and true beauty are born.

Surviving cancer has taught me not to blink twice in life—my eyes are wide open, and I am living to the fullest. I also realized, after surviving cancer both times, that I was about to face new beginnings, have new hope, and do and see more with a whole new perspective. I was modeling, doing some acting, and working full-time when cancer hit me, and it slowed me down for a while, but I’m back with a vengeance to see how far I can go. I’m fulfilling my dreams now, even at the age of sixtysix. I share my story with others, hoping to positively impact anyone who is ill or going through hardship so they can proceed with life in a whole new way. I cherish each day and moment; through it all, I feel I’m at my

Karen Rice is a two-time cancer survivor and three-time author from Houston, Texas. Her latest book, Cancer, Yet Cancer Again: But I Will Not Die Before I’m Dead, is available on Amazon. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 59

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The Balanced Blonde founder, Jordan Younger, with her son, Atticus

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THIS IS YOUR SIGN S P I R I T U A L AWA K E N I N G , OVERCOMING

CHRONIC

ILLNESS, AND HEALING

he’s soulful and spiritual and has that extra magnetic sparkle that effortlessly makes others feel seen. Jordan Younger, the founder of The Balanced Blonde, was spiritual before it was stylish—let’s just say the early 2000s didn’t define the “cool girl” as the young woman sharing about the soul’s journey, shopping for adaptogenic herbal remedies, and tuning into her intuition. Younger has openly shared her personal growth and evolution online since she started her blog, The Balanced Blonde, in 2013. What began as a platform to share clean vegan recipes later transformed into a greater wellness collective to share about spiritual awakening, aligned friendships, overcoming chronic illness, and most recently, conscious parenting and becoming a fabulous mama to her son, Atticus. We asked Younger to share her evolution in the wellness space over the last decade and her secrets for healing, cultivating a community, and tapping into a greater sense of spiritual well-being. Read on for an exclusive heart-to-heart conversation and guidance on stepping into the most authentic version of yourself.

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La vitalité VIE: What inspired you to start The Balanced Blonde? JY: Thank you so much for having me! I am honored to be here and to connect with your readers. I started The Balanced Blonde in 2013 to document the healthy vegan recipes I was obsessed with creating, but it quickly became so much more. I started on Instagram, and a few months later, I made a blog to go with it. Rather than sharing recipes only, like I saw other food bloggers doing (there weren’t that many of us at the time), I decided to share much more about my life. Or, I don’t think I “decided” so much as I “had to.” I felt an innate need to share deeply, connect with my audience, and get to know them. I always say the blogging life chose me. After blogging about vegan food and my healthy lifestyle while living in NYC for the first year of my brand, I realized that although the blogging career wasn’t a “thing” yet, this seemed like a really exciting way to make money while doing what I truly loved. I started reaching out to wellness brands and doing collaborations, and I created my first merchandise line, The Blonde Vegan Apparel. We were at the forefront of creating products for influencer audiences. It was an exciting and fun time. VIE: We would love for you to share about your journey with chronic illness. What lessons has this taught you, and what advice would you give to someone who is also navigating this experience and road to healing? JY: Thank you so much for this question. Chronic illness is a real beast and doesn’t usually get the spotlight it deserves. When something is chronic—meaning there is no cure, and technically, you have to deal with it forever—it’s hard for other people to understand it. They’re like, “Oh, you look fine, so you must be fine,” and that’s just not the case. It can be an isolating experience. It is another thing that makes me grateful for my career on the internet because blogging about my journey has made me feel less alone (and another perk is that I can do it from bed—chronic illness means a lot of time in bed). To give you the details: I was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2018 after a little over a year of experiencing mysterious symptoms and feeling absolutely awful. Some of the symptoms were full-body hives, extreme chronic fatigue (I couldn’t even lift my arm to reach for a glass of water on 62 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

my nightstand), brain fog, joint pain, uterine fibroids, hormone imbalances, ringing in my ears, and overall lack of motivation even to keep going. If you had seen the Energizer bunny I had been before this diagnosis, you would know what a big shift it was for me. I was too exhausted even to live my life—I just wanted every commitment, every responsibility, every person who needed something from me, everything, to go away. I did a million things to try to heal; it was my full-time job for years. Ultimately, I realized no one was going to heal me but me. I learned a lot of spiritual lessons from the experience. I also learned how resilient I am, who my true friends are, the importance of leaning into support, and the extreme significance of tapping into my soul’s true nature and essence. Even though I loved my life, becoming an entrepreneur so young turned me into a workaholic. I had to find my way back to balance, a journey I am working on daily! VIE: What is a struggle you’ve navigated related to spirituality or wellness and a tool you used to help heal? Do you still use that resource today? JY: The biggest struggle was the Lyme battle, and that ended up being a spiritual, health, wellness, mind-body-soul journey. It ticked all of the boxes. The biggest thing I had to learn was how to slow down, have boundaries, and say “no.” The tool that helped me to heal most was psychedelics. It’s not something I recommend to everyone, but it radically shifted my life. Right now, I am not in an active stage of using psychedelics—because I feel like I have a lifetime of integration to do after several very deep plant medicine journeys over many years. We’re talking ayahuasca, psilocybin, and ketamine therapy. I have great reverence for these medicines. The shifts are unexplainable but so miraculously deep and life-changing. VIE: How do you live a vibrant, healthy life? What is one health or wellness ritual that you never skip, no matter how busy life gets? JY: After years of not having the energy to live my life, living vibrantly means being energized, fueled, nourished, and invigorated from the inside out. As long as I have my health, I know I can set the world on fire. The most important things to me daily are spending time with my family, being the best mom and wife I can be, and caring for my body. The rest is secondary. For rituals I never skip, I meditate daily, even if it’s a quick one! I recently launched my meditation platform for anyone looking for fun, easy, and quick but deep and effective meditations!

VIE: We love The Balanced Blonde: Soul on Fire podcast! What has this journey been like for you since entering the industry? What do you hope listeners will take away from your platform?

VIE: What does spiritual wellness look and feel like to you? Have any practices or resources helped you connect deeper in this area?

Left: Inspirational husband-and-wife duo Jonathan Albrecht and Jordan Younger with their son, Atticus

JY: Thank you so much! The industry has changed so much. I started my blog in 2013 and the podcast in 2016. Especially when I began the blog, it was a different world. I loved being online at that time because there was nothing to lose, no one to compare yourself to, and honestly, the social media space was the Wild West. People were sharing the weirdest images of themselves with the tackiest filters, and we thought it was all simply amazing. I miss those days. There was a lot of support because the blogging community was small—we pretty much all knew about each other. Now, I find out about new influencers with over three million followers daily, and I’m like, “Wait, how did I not even know this person existed?” It’s wild. I am grateful the industry has exploded, and I have always felt the more, the merrier. But I do feel nostalgic for those OG days. Also, before Instagram changed its algorithm, everyone who followed me actually saw my content daily—that is something I miss!

JY: Spiritual wellness, for me, looks and feels like a deep sense of inner peace, alignment, and purpose. It’s a state of being where I feel connected to my inner self and the greater universe, where I find meaning and a profound sense of contentment by being exactly who I am. Mostly, it means being present with my family and being a guiding light for the people I love. As far as practices, getting into nature, doing yoga, meditating, being alone with myself, tapping into my psychic abilities, and being present in daily life have helped me grow and expand in these areas. I have a lot of spiritual mentors who have guided me along the way, but I also love traveling solo; it brings about the best awakenings. I find the less pressure we put on ourselves to “be spiritual,” the more we can live in the now and live a spiritual, attuned life.

VIE: What is one challenge you have experienced that people wouldn’t guess from the outside looking in, your life on social media, or your success with The Balanced Blonde? JY: Oh wow, that’s a hard one because I share so much online that I feel like I am the opposite of mysterious! When I experienced debilitating anxiety in early 2023, it absolutely rocked me to my core. It was so scary. It was my first (and hopefully only) foray into an actual mental health breakdown—or what I prefer to call an awakening—and it was the worst thing I have ever experienced by far. In some ways, it made Lyme feel like a walk in the park. I am so grateful to the support team around me and for the courage to get through it and know brighter days were coming.

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For future episodes, I am excited to keep growing, expanding, and sharing about all things 5D. That is what I am really passionate about. I hope listeners will take away that life is meant to be loved, that spirituality is cool, and that falling in love with yourself and becoming your own best friend will be the catalyst to absolutely everything.

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VIE: What is one of your talents that lies deeper than what meets the eye?

At this stage, I have also seen a lot of influencers “come and go,” and when someone sticks around and remains dedicated to their brand and audience, I believe that long-term devotion is felt. The blogging life chose me. I found a way to blog even in the fourth grade. I was a staple in the AOL chat rooms, giving advice to other kids in cyberspace. I guess you could say the passion runs deep—and it is a talent, by the way, to talk to strangers all day and find a way to connect!

JY: Honestly, I would say my passion for storytelling. A lot of people can share their lives online, but those who can do so with longevity and real authentic excitement to create community are fewer and further between. My readers and podcast listeners genuinely feel like family to me after all these years. I mean it when I say they are like my long-lost best friends from all over the world!

In 2024, Younger will release a healing memoir she has been working on for many years. She also just launched a meditation platform, Soul on Fire Meditations. Her podcast, The Balanced Blonde: Soul on Fire, is released weekly. Connect with Jordan Younger on Instagram @thebalancedblonde, on the podcast, or send her an email to learn more!

L’intermission

The Superfood Hunter Today, Olien is committed to sounding the urgent alarm, exposing an invisible world of toxins, and spreading the message in Fatal Conveniences so more people can become conscious consumers, feel better, and care for the planet. The book is now available from Amazon and other major booksellers. Visit DarinOlien.com to learn more or listen to Olien’s podcast. Photos courtesy of Darin Olien

Darin Olien is on a mission to improve the health of people and the planet. He is the cohost of the Emmy-winning Netflix docuseries Down to Earth with Zac Efron, New York Times best-selling author of SuperLife and his new book, Fatal Conveniences, the original creator of Shakeology, founder of Barukas, and the one-and-only Superfood Hunter. Olien’s natural curiosity for growth and nutrition led him all over the planet to discover new and underutilized exotic foods and medicinal plants. His latest book, Fatal Conveniences, was inspired by his father’s experience with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), where low levels of toxic, everyday-type chemicals found in products like lotions, laundry detergents, and shampoos trigger physical symptoms such as headaches, brain fog, fatigue, and memory loss. Fatal Conveniences unearths how deep

Love, VIE xo

the issue of hidden harmful chemicals in our products runs and the major role corporations and the government play. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 65

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F I NDING

Your

F L O W

The CYCLE SYNCING METHOD with Alisa Vitti

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FLO Living founder, author, and women’s health expert Alisa Vitti

INTERVIEW BY HAILEY BETHKE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CYCLE SYNCING®

Alisa Vitti IS A FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION AND WOMEN’S

HORMONE EXPERT, CREATOR OF THE CYCLE SYNCING METHOD, AND AUTHOR OF BESTSELLING BOOKS WOMANCODE AND IN THE FLO. Over the last twenty years, she has been on a mission to transform hormonal healthcare and empower women to become more in sync with their bodies’ natural rhythms. After suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS— which resulted in having no cycle from age twelve to twenty-two, being fifty pounds overweight, painful cystic acne, depression, anxiety, and hair loss—Vitti had experienced how the conventional care model had failed her and continues to fall short for women diagnosed with various hormonal issues. She believes this is because mainstream medicine often fails to understand the root causes of hormonal dysregulation, requires an extensive timeframe to be fully diagnosed (which is seven years, on average), and uses a “one-size-fits-all” approach to treatment—ubiquitously prescribing birth control as a solution. “I wanted to help myself, and then I wanted to help every woman going through these issues,” Vitti shares. “To do this, I built one of the original, if not the first, femtech companies, FLO Living, which launched in 2012. We help women via our patented app, supplements, and digital therapeutic programs to help them take control of their hormonal health at home for menstrual issues, infertility issues, and perimenopause issues. It’s a hormonal health management platform for every woman, from their first bleed to their last.” She explains, “We must do away with hormone suppression (aka oral contraception) as the first treatment for period problems of every type (from PMS to PCOS, fibroids, etc.) and embrace dietary and lifestyle intervention as the first line of treatment. Our understanding of what hormones need to function optimally has come a long way. Though more research is needed when it comes to women’s hormones, we do have a tremendous amount of published research showing how effective dietary and lifestyle interventions are.”

AV: Cycle Syncing is the method I created after discovering the infradian rhythm and its impact on women’s systems. Much like the circadian rhythm needs specific support, our infradian rhythm must be supported to perform optimally. The problem that I also found was that everything women have been told to do, from eating the same calories daily to working out the same way daily to waking up at the same time every morning, is not only based on research done on men that actively excluded women, but fundamentally disrupts this infradian rhythm and causes all sorts of hormone issues that affect a woman’s cycle, immune response, stress response, brain, and metabolic health. I detail all of this in my best-selling and seminal book on this subject, In the FLO.

We asked Vitti to share more about her proprietary Cycle Syncing Method and how our female readers can better work with the natural features of their bodies. Knowing your cycle, inside and out, has never been easier and more accessible, thanks to modern-day research and technology.

Alisa Vitti has been on a mission to

VIE: Tell our readers about Cycle Syncing®. What are the four phases within the menstrual cycle, and how can we best make shifts to work with our bodies instead of against them?

sync with their bodies’ natural rhythms.

transform hormonal healthcare and

empower women to become more in

V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 67

La vitalité Women have an unknown second biological clock called the infradian rhythm, which we experience throughout our monthly cycle, but it affects way more than your period. It affects your body’s key systems, from your metabolism, brain, immune response, stress response, libido, fertility, and cycle. So, your diet is a critical tool that you must use to support this infradian rhythm. You have to change your self-care routine to match your changing hormones, while men need to keep theirs the same daily to match their hormonal patterns. I created a method to optimize this called the Cycle Syncing Method.

1. 2. 3.

”

There are three pillars to my method:

Change the foods you eat and caloric levels to match the four phases of your cycle—to optimize blood sugar stability and hormonal balance. Change your workout type and intensity to match each phase to optimize metabolism and fat use as fuel. Organize your projects and time management around each phase to reduce cortisol and stress.

Everything works better in your body when you support your biological rhythm properly.

The Cycle Syncing Method syncs your food type and caloric intake, your workout type and intensity, and your projects to each of the four phases of your cycle (follicular, ovulatory, luteal, and menstrual) so that you can not only support hormonal health in each phase and reduce cycle symptoms but also reduce stress, boost energy, and live with your unique feminine dynamic energy at the center of your life.

Right: Check out Vitti’s books on women’s hormonal health, WomanCode and In the FLO. Opposite: Vitti’s Cycle Syncing Method focuses on optimizing exercise and nutrition throughout the four phases of a woman’s cycle. 68 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

Diet is one of the main drivers of hormonal balance—what you eat affects your insulin, cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone levels. Any issues you are having with your hormones, skin, weight, moods, or cycle are likely tied to your diet and can all be improved dramatically by using food strategically to support and optimize endocrine function. The problem is women are told that the diet that will help them is based on research done to optimize male health, and it turns out it’s messing with women’s hormones! The now famous and viral Cycle Syncing food chart is in chapter four of In the FLO. At a high level: • In the follicular and ovulatory phases, think of lighter meals emphasizing more raw foods.

•

In the luteal phase, focus on blood sugar-stabilizing meals that include root veggies, beans, whole grains, cooked vegetables, good quality fats, and proteins. In the menstrual phase, focus on protein, fats, and easy-to-digest meals like soups and stews.

Exercise dramatically affects hormone levels. Depending on the intensity, it can reduce circulating cortisol levels during or after, decrease circulating estrogen levels, boost endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, boost testosterone and human growth hormone, have profound effects on thyroid hormone, and help manage insulin resistance. It’s an essential tool to balance hormones because we were made to move! For women who are still menstruating, we have to factor in our steroid hormone changes across the cycle phases when we make our fitness routine as they create different hormonal patterns. I created the Cycle Syncing Method with this in mind. So you’ll focus on intense cardio and HIIT workouts pre-ovulation. Post-ovulation, you’ll do strength training and zone 2 cardio only. •

•

In the follicular and ovulatory phases, focus on cardio and HIIT. Because the metabolism is slower (needs fewer calories) and resting cortisol is lower, you can use cardio to burn stored fat as fuel. In the luteal phase, studies show that because metabolism speeds up and resting cortisol is higher, you need 279 more calories per day. You should focus on strength training to burn fat as fuel, build lean muscle, and keep

•

blood sugar stable, which will help you eliminate PMS during this phase and optimize your workout results. It also means you must not do HIIT workouts during this phase, as it will turn on fat storage and muscle wasting. In the bleeding phase, all hormones are at their lowest levels, so try restorative cardio like walking, yoga, or pilates.

VIE: What are some common misconceptions about Cycle Syncing and menstruation that you wish more women knew?

Diet is one of the main drivers of hormonal balance—what you eat affects your insulin, cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone levels.

AV: Cycle Syncing has gone viral on social media, from 15,000 hashtags in 2020 to 500 million hashtags in 2023. Everyone posts what they’re doing in each phase with their food, fitness, and more. I think it resonates with women on a profound level because it’s the first and only method that puts their biology at the center of the plan and validates how they have been feeling inside their bodies throughout their cycle. It’s a relief to finally be given the information on how your cycle phases work and what to do to care for yourself as you change throughout the month. This is in stark contrast with every other plan that has been researched on men and has left women out but told them to do those plans and programs anyway and hope for the best. It’s wonderful to see how my work is shifting the cultural narrative around what real hormonal health looks like for women in their reproductive years. It’s cyclical—period. The only women who cannot truly engage in the Cycle Syncing Method are women who use hormonal birth control. Unfortunately, you don’t have any cycle phases when you are on that medication. You are in a sort of menopausal state with low levels of all hormones, no ovulation, occasional breakthrough bleeding that is not an actual period, and no phase changes.

The benefits of using the Cycle Syncing Method are enormous. You can keep your blood sugar more stable, reduce stress levels, boost estrogen elimination, improve bowel movements and gut health, clear skin, eliminate PMS symptoms, eliminate cramps, promote cycle regularity, experience better moods, better sleep, and better sex drive, lose weight more efficiently, and boost your productivity. Everything works better in your body when you support your biological rhythm properly.

VIE: What is a struggle you’ve navigated related to spirituality, health, or wellness and a tool you used to help heal? AV: I struggled with my hormones, and that had a profound effect on me. As a result, I have been building all the tools I wish I had had at the time. I have personally used the Cycle Syncing Method for the past twenty years. Unexpectedly for myself and for so many women who use this method, it has the added benefit of being a practice that heals a lot of the cultural conditioning we receive as women around body image, feminine versus masculine energy, and being in the full expression of our emotional range and our identities. It has been a method that has both physical and emotional benefits. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 69

”

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The Cycle Syncing Method syncs your food type and caloric intake, your workout type and intensity, and your projects to each of the four phases of your cycle.

VIE: What does living a vibrant, healthy life look and feel like to you? AV: It looks different every week based on my phase! It is listening to my body and adjusting my self-care routines in real-time based on what is needed. It looks like the opposite of perfection and strictness. It’s soft, dynamic, and creative!

VIE: What is your opinion on health trends? Do you like trying them out, or do you believe that true health is found in simple habits that occur consistently? AV: I think it’s great that we keep exploring and pushing our understanding further. I applaud those who love to experiment. For women in their reproductive years, I think organizing your self-care around your hormonal patterns will give you the most bang for your biohacking buck. After menopause, you can do more with your exploration into more extreme trends if you’d like. Personally, I focus on supporting the systems of the body, not trends. That looks like supporting the circadian rhythm with good sleep hygiene, supporting the infradian rhythm with Cycle Syncing, supporting metabolism with blood sugar stabilization and building and maintaining lean muscle, supporting the pathways of elimination with fiber, probiotics, micronutrients, and cardio, supporting the immune system and longevity with regular orgasm (for women), and supporting mental and emotional health with meditation and social connection.

VIE: Name one challenge you’ve experienced that people wouldn’t guess from the outside looking in, your life on social media, or your success with FLO Living.

Vitti travels for speaking events, talk shows, and seminars to educate women about understanding their hormonal health.

AV: I was very shy when I was younger and struggled to express myself. I remember having a hard time speaking up in class, organizing my thoughts for an essay, and finding the right words to communicate my feelings. I have worked all that out, but I still consider myself an introvert with learned extroverted skills.

VIE: What are some of your favorite techniques that are easy to implement as beginners to Cycle Syncing? Let them know where to connect with you and how to start their Cycle Syncing journey. AV: 1. Download the free official Cycle Syncing app, MYFLO. MYFLO will tell you which phase you’re in and what to do in each phase for food, fitness, work, and relationships, and it even provides recipes, grocery lists, workout videos, and a monthly calendar so you can sync everything up with your cycle. 2. Pick up the book In the FLO to dive deeper. 3. Start with one aspect of the Cycle Syncing Method, like modifying workouts, and build from there. 4. Remember—this is not a diet; it’s a lifestyle, so pace yourself. Go for whatever you can do each day. Take the pressure off yourself to get it right or to be perfect.

If you’re struggling with hormone problems or issues like PCOS, fibroids, heavy bleeding, infertility, or perimenopause, visit FLOliving.com and get started with your free hormonal assessment.

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Get to Know Alisa Vitti

One piece of advice you would give your twenty-year-old self: Travel more and drop the body shame Favorite mantra: Progress over perfection A life-changing book: Circe by Madeleine Miller—the hero’s journey told from the feminine energy POV. It should be required reading! One thing that will always make you laugh: My husband is always doing things to make me laugh, and I love him for it! Favorite sweet treat to indulge in: D-A-R-K C-H-O-C-O-L-A-T-E Favorite form of movement: Mini trampoline A simple joy you experience in your daily routine: Getting outside to walk in nature, feel the sun, and breathe in the smell of all the trees and plants

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CONNECTION, CLARITY, AND

COMMUNICATION INTERVIEW BY HAILEY BETHKE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CREATE THE LOVE

Human connection specialist and founder of Create the Love, Mark Groves

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A GUIDE TO REL ATIONSHIPS

“IF YOU WANT TO FIND LOVE, FIND WHAT BREAKS YOUR HEART. That’s what my friend Jon Marro once said to me,” shares Mark Groves. “It was through my inability to show up to relationships that I thoroughly wanted to understand them. I wondered, ‘Why did I run from love?’ As someone who was in sales and studied and excelled at communication, why was I so bad at communication in relationships? It wasn’t a skill set issue, so what was going on?” Groves is a human connection specialist who has dedicated his life to discovering the intricacies of relationships. His business, Create the Love, offers online courses and content alongside podcast episodes and social media posts to teach the most foundational step in building a healthy relationship: fully loving yourself. We asked Groves for his expertise in navigating new relationships and improving existing ones to be most supportive and connected. Working on strengthening our relationships with others does not have to include heated conversations with your partner, lectures on love languages, or a religious commitment to reading self-help books. Groves shares how relationships are simple; they are not necessarily easy, but they only require a dedication to growth, personal reflection, practice reinstating your self-worth, and assessing your core values.

VIE: HOW DOES SELF-LOVE DIRECTLY IMPACT RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS? HOW CAN WE CULTIVATE MORE COMPASSION FOR OURSELVES AND GET IN TUNE WITH WHAT WE TRULY WANT? MARK GROVES: Self-love is not a destination; it is a group of rituals and habits. It is what we choose. If someone wants to love themselves, they must love their choices. There is a desire that comes with this definition to want to be punitive with ourselves when we make bad choices. We often create a sense of moral perfectionism. But true self-love is progress, not being perfect. It’s about learning from our mistakes and deviations and applying those learnings immediately. If we know something isn’t good for us and continue that behavior, we can’t possibly love our

choices. So, be gentle with yourself, but don’t pretend you don’t know what you know. Rise to your knowledge and make it wisdom through implementation. The more you can trust your choices around the people you’re in relationships with, the more you can trust who you choose to be in a relationship with. If you’re willing to compromise yourself for others, you won’t be able to love yourself fully because you won’t know who you are—because who you are changes in relationship to others.

unwilling to look at our patterns. When we don’t get real about who we’ve been, what we choose, and the mistakes we make in relationships, we repeat them. From a spiritual and developmental perspective, this is for our evolution. Change or repeat.

When you get rooted in who you are and how you are showing up and love what you’re choosing, you’ll be able to accept someone’s love when it comes into your life. Why? Because if you don’t love yourself, and someone tells you they love you, you won’t believe them. There’s a saying that we can only love another at the depths to which we love ourselves. I believe this to be true.

VIE: WHY DO PEOPLE STRUGGLE TO MOVE ON FROM PAST RELATIONSHIPS AND HEARTBREAKS AND CONTINUOUSLY ATTRACT SIMILAR PEOPLE INTO THEIR LIVES? MARK G: There’s a saying, “Relationships that don’t end peacefully don’t end at all.” We often interpret this as meaning we and the other person must come to a peaceful place with a breakup for the ending to be complete. I, personally, never place closure in the hands of another; when we do that, we’re still putting power over our lives and the heaviness we carry in someone else’s behavior and actions, which we have no control over. But we do. We are sovereign and powerful beings. I interpret this beautiful quote to mean that if we don’t accept the ending, truly allowing ourselves to grieve the relationship and learn everything we can from the experience, the past will continue to find its way into our current relationships. Simply put, what is not explored and excavated for learning is undone. We repeat relationship patterns because we’re V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 73

La vitalité VIE: HOW SHOULD SOMEONE DETERMINE THEIR STANDARDS OR CRITERIA FOR A PARTNER? ARE HIGH STANDARDS GROUNDED IN SELF-WORTH, OR ARE THEY BARRIERS TO PROTECT US FROM COMMITMENT? MG: A great way to explore what you desire in a relationship is to look at relationships you admire. What do you admire about them? What characteristics do they have that you’d like to embody? What skill sets do they exemplify? We can look at our past experiences and ask ourselves, “What did I really love about each person I dated? What did I not love?” In my opinion, essential things to look for are shared values, the desire for growth, the willingness to learn from one another, both parties keeping their word, and being open to feedback and willing to provide it. Many people never take the time to create a list of what they’re looking for; this causes them to settle for anything that shows up because they haven’t taken the time to create clarity. A powerful anchor to integrity is once you make the list, be it. You have no right to desire something you are not being yourself. Standards can sometimes be walls. We can simply check in with ourselves: “Are my standards high as a way of not allowing people in?” We’ll know the answer right away, which still doesn’t mean we’ll like the answer!

VIE: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP MISTAKES YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED FIRSTHAND OR SEEN YOUR CLIENTS MAKE? WHAT SHIFTS CAN PEOPLE MAKE TO SET THEMSELVES UP FOR MORE SUPPORTIVE, OPTIMAL RELATIONSHIPS? MG: Most people in relationships don’t tell the truth. They don’t feel free to be themselves. They avoid hard conversations. They run from true vulnerability or toward those they are not safe to be vulnerable with. I’ve done all these things! To be freed from the patterns, look for where you’re not being completely honest. Look for how 74 | JA NUA R Y 2 0 24

you blame others you’re in a relationship with for circumstances you agree to be in. Look for where you hold resentment because that is a deep seed of martyrdom. Commit to telling the truth in every relationship in your life. Create boundaries around your values. Learn how to use your voice. Stop choosing to participate in relationships that aren’t headed where you want to go or in which the other person is incapable of creating what you desire.

Above: Tune in to hear The Mark Groves Podcast: Making Life Make Sense on all podcast listening platforms.

VIE: WHAT ARE SOME RELATIONSHIP “RED FLAGS” AND “GREEN FLAGS”? MG: Here are some common red flags to be aware of (things that can indicate a relationship is not good for you): • They are unkind to strangers. • They have inconsistent communication. • They drop “L bombs” right away. • They try to rush into taking you away on a trip very early on or spend too much money on you. • They buy lavish gifts, especially after they mess up or let you down, rather than taking responsibility for it (to distract you with something shiny). • They are unkind to you. • They have a very hot/very cold switch. • They don’t ask you any questions. • They don’t counter-offer (reschedule) after a cancellation. • They never change, or they change only for a moment. Or they hold change over your head. • They aren’t open to feedback and growth. They get defensive when you express a boundary. • They make you feel like everything is your fault. • They belittle you or don’t celebrate your success and power. • They overshare on the first date or talk trash about their exes. • They’re overly protective of you, and you have to defend innocent behavior. • Your body or intuition is like, “Hell no.” Or it feels like there’s something off. This one requires an abundance mindset because it asks us, “Can I trust myself and the universe to direct me toward alignment?”

There are certainly more red flags out there. Although you might not see them at first, with practice and conscious mindfulness, you will get better at spotting them. You can save time, frustration, and painful breakups by noticing these when you start dating. The other side of this coin is green flags. They do exist! Green means go. These are good signs of a healthy person—someone who works on themself to achieve healing and be a better partner. Here are some common green flags in a potential partner: • They are kind to strangers. • They have a good relationship with their family. • They are good at communicating their thoughts and feelings. • They act and speak respectfully to you. • They ask you questions and are interested in getting to know you. • They counter-offer (reschedule) after a cancellation. • They want and seek similar things to you. • They’re willing to make some sacrifices to meet you halfway. • They take responsibility for their mistakes. • They celebrate your success, power, and growth. They are happy for you. • They want to take it slow with you and don’t pres sure you to have sex. • They give you “me time” and respect your sacred space. • They don’t avoid meeting your family and friends. There are plenty of other green flags out there, and the common themes are: the person respects you, honors you, isn’t afraid of your relationship, and is strong in who they are as an individual.

W H AT D I D I R E A L LY L O V E A B O U T E A C H PERSON I DATED? WHAT DID I NOT LOVE? V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 75

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VIE: THANK YOU, MARK! Groves believes we can achieve a free and healthy life by living in alignment with our values and integrity. “When one is in congruence with their values, their life is vibrant and healthy because they can trust themselves to stand for what matters to them,” he says. For Groves, this means making exercise a non-negotiable part of his daily routine, whether hiking, mountain biking, surfing, or weightlifting. He is also a frequent meditator and advocates for mindful breathwork practices and cold plunges to add an element of somatic healing.

For those looking to dive deeper into their relationship journeys, Groves recommends his courses Dating 101, Rediscover Your Wholeness, and Breakup Recovery. He will also publish a book called Liberated Love with his wife, Kylie Groves, in 2024. To connect with Groves, head to MarkGroves.com and tune into The Mark Groves Podcast on all listening platforms. A LITTLE MORE ABOUT MARK GROVES ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO YOUR TWENTY-YEAR-OLD SELF: It’s okay to be sensitive. Just make sure your sensitivity is protected by savage boundaries. A SIMPLE JOY YOU EXPERIENCE IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE: The first breath when I wake up is gratitude for another day. FAVORITE SWEET OR SALTY TREAT: Justin’s dark chocolate peanut butter cups SOMETHING YOU’RE PROUD OF: My capacity to love, to learn, and to stand in my integrity THE BEST BOOK YOU’VE READ RECENTLY: 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy ONE THING ON YOUR VISION BOARD FOR 2024: A 1972 Chevy Blazer

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L’intermission

Self-Love Role Model Iskra Lawrence, founder of Saltair Visit Saltair.com to learn more or shop now. Photo courtesy of Saltair

Iskra Lawrence is not your average model. She’s a powerhouse using her platform as a supermodel, mom, and entrepreneur to encourage women to embark on a journey of self-love and acceptance and unlock their authentic gifts. She has been placed on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and BBC World’s 100 Most Influential Women. She also gave a vulnerable TEDx Talk on ending the pursuit of perfection and her experience with body dysmorphia and overcoming an eating disorder. Her most recently launched brand, Saltair, uses potent skin-care ingredients to bring your body care routine to the next level, all while keeping sustainability and inclusivity at the forefront.

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SEE THE WORLD

Book your stay or learn more at AlisalRanch.com. Photo by Teal Thompsen

Need an excuse to don a pair of cowboy boots? Look no further. Alisal Ranch is a 10,500-acre luxury working ranch in Santa Ynez Valley, California, encouraging guests to reconnect with nature and embrace country living in style. Since the nineteenth century, the sacred valley has been associated with romance thanks to its rolling hills and peaceful local wildlife. Ranchers inhabited the land to raise cattle in the 1800s, and ever since then, Alisal has stayed true to authentic dude-ranch style with plenty of trails for horseback riding and mountain biking, plus accommodations complete with premium amenities.

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Voyager

THROUGH TUNNEL THE

SEEKERS FIND HEALING ON MEDIEVAL PILGRIMAGE

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INTERVIEW BY WENDY ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAMINO CONCIERGE

ver since the first known pilgrim traversed the Spanish countryside to visit the burial place of St. James in Santiago de Compostela in the year 950, travelers have been making pilgrimages to the same location. Over a millennium later, this medieval tradition continues to gain popularity as modern-day trekkers tout its ability to inspire personal growth and healing.

VIE asked Michelle Lessard, founder of Camino Concierge, about her experience on the Camino de Santiago and why she’s passionate about using her influencer platform to help others as they prepare to undertake this powerful journey. VIE: How did you initially get involved in the Camino de Santiago? Michelle Lessard: I lived in the UK for several years and traveled to Spain on business, so I first heard about the Camino there. In 2013, after living back in the US, I found myself at a point where I was praying for some answers about struggles in my life. Suddenly, a number of things converged, including promptings about the Camino and availability in my schedule, provided I went right away. I didn’t think everything I would need—such as an international flight—could come together in three days, but I told God I would go if they did. Not only did the flight come through, but when I was in the REI store in Phoenix, Arizona, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the huge selection of backpacks and hiking gear, it just so happened that an employee had walked the Camino. She walked me through every detail. This was my first experience with a “Camino angel,” the term pilgrims use for someone who suddenly crosses your path to help you on your journey. Three days later, I was in Europe.

The cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, where the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage ends Photo by Iago Viana Gonzalez/Shutterstock

VIE: Give us a brief overview of what the Camino de Santiago involves. ML: The Camino de Santiago—Spanish for “The Way of St. James”—is a journey that follows ancient pilgrim pathways to the city of Santiago de Compostela, where a cathedral was built after the remains of James, one of Christ’s original apostles, were moved there in the ninth century. I took the most popular of several routes, the French Way, which starts in Saint John Pied de Port and traverses 800 kilometers (500 miles) over thirty-three days. Those who don’t have that much time opt for shorter routes. V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 93

Voyager “CAMINO CONCIERGE IS ABOUT EMPOWERING TRAVELERS AND SIMPLIFYING THE PROCESS TO LEAVE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL ROOM FOR PERSONAL GROWTH."

Below and right: Michelle Lessard, founder of Camino Concierge, during her Camino de Santiago pilgrimage Bottom left, top right, and opposite bottom: The agricultural vistas throughout the 500-mile route are spectacular. Opposite top right: Over 400,000 people participate in the Camino yearly, and making friends along the way is a highlight of the journey for many.

What differentiates the Camino from other through-hikes, including the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, is that it is also a spiritual pilgrimage. Those who embark on it expect a profound inner benefit during the experience. Most are Christians of various backgrounds, with the churches along the way having particular meaning to members of the Catholic Church, but many make the trek who do not follow a specific faith. VIE: You’ve traveled widely. What about this experience made it so personally beneficial? ML: The Camino is unique because it’s such an all-encompassing experience. You experience so much of life—many ups, downs, joys, and sorrows. I went in with an open mind, which is very important, and it gave me an incredible opportunity to grow mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and in physical strength. One goes into the Camino as one person and comes out as another. VIE: What does it take physically to walk 500 miles? ML: Pushing oneself physically to walk about fifteen miles a day in all kinds of weather is a major part of the experience. But you don’t have to be a super athlete. With only three days to prepare, I hadn’t trained physically—and the beginning of the French Way requires hiking uphill over the Pyrenees! Compeed pads (a Spanish product superior to Band-Aids) and duct tape are essential for blisters, and I had to buy new shoes when my feet flattened. But the body really becomes strong. After about ten days, I found myself in a fluid, natural motion with my walking poles (another essential item for downhill portions of the hike) and with an empowering newfound feeling of strength. I walked with one gentleman on his seventh Camino at ninety-two years young! Officials who certify the routes also recognize pilgrimages made by bicycle, horseback, wheelchair, and even sailboat. VIE: What was it like to undertake the journey alone? Tell us about the people you met. ML: One of the most powerful parts of my journey was having time alone to think and to pray as I walked. The Camino covers many agricultural areas, and many villages are closed when the workers are in the fields, during siesta time, or on Sundays. The days I hiked alone forced me to face myself and tackle something I was grappling with.

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However, a massive component of the Camino is interacting with others from all over the world. I came to cherish the communal aspect of the evenings. Because of our different paces, I didn’t see the same people every day, but I got to know about fifty I saw repeatedly over the month. Being away from news media and meeting real people made the world seem more connected and helped increase my faith in humanity! I learned that people worldwide are more alike than different—we all hold the same challenges, dreams, and sorrows. You learn three things about your fellow travelers: their first name, nationality, and the reason for their journey. Each pilgrim must define their motivation for walking—you state it when you register at the end in Santiago—and it’s something everyone talks about on the way. Some said their reasons were physical, such as losing weight, but most sought something deeper. A lot of people came because they felt broken or at an impasse. One man was grieving the loss of his daughter; another was processing the recent loss of six of her friends. Everyone encourages each other in their outward and inward pilgrimages.

and a coastal, Celtic-influenced culture, so I had to try its famous seafood. Because the bunk rooms could be noisy, I opted for a small local bed-and-breakfast or hotel every three or four nights to catch up on sleep. One night, I treated myself to a luxury hotel, the Parador in León, after seeing it in the movie The Way with Martin Sheen. The bubble bath was blissful! VIE: What caused you to start Camino Concierge to focus on the Camino? ML: I’m passionate about helping others experience the empowerment, spiritual growth, and connection to other cultures that the Camino offers, which goes beyond what a typical vacation provides. My goal is to help prepare English-speaking travelers to get the most out of their journeys.

VIE: What else can you tell us about the inner aspects of the journey? ML: Traditions have developed that facilitate personal growth. One of these is bringing a rock from one’s hometown to deposit along the way. Many leave this rock at the highest point, Cruz de Ferro, symbolizing leaving one’s burden at the cross. It can be a powerfully moving experience. Because everyone processes at his or her own rate, many crosses along the way were covered with rocks as visual pictures of personal and spiritual growth. My reason for traveling was to learn more about love—including God’s love and self-love. Both became a reality to me. The highlight of my journey was an intense experience where I had an overwhelming feeling of being filled with the love of God. Each traveler takes home a unique experience.

Many Americans are not experienced in traveling overseas, or they’ve only gone in large groups. I’ve seen future pilgrims make mistakes that better advice would have prevented. One of these is overpreparing: some people try to control every contingency and end up too rigid, hindering their opportunity to experience the blessing of unplanned events and to receive help from others. Another problem is fear—of the unknown, traveling alone, or the change required. Camino Concierge is designed to alleviate these fears and to be a one-stop shop for advice. When I went, there was one English-language guidebook and an online forum with fifty different answers to a question—making it more confusing than helpful! Now, resources have proliferated to the point where the over-abundance of information has become daunting. CC is about empowering travelers and simplifying the process to leave mental and emotional room for personal growth. VIE: Thank you!

VIE: Where did you sleep? And what was the food like? ML: With over 400,000 travelers participating each year, a network of hostels called alburgues has developed. Some offer food and drink from a combination café-bar, and all provide overnight accommodation. For those used to luxury, sleeping on bunk beds in a communal room is part of voluntarily embracing the physical challenge of the Camino. But no actual camping is required. You quickly develop a nightly ritual: washing clothes, inserting newspaper in hiking boots to help them dry, partaking in the traditional pilgrim dinner, and, of course, drinking wine. The dinner includes a lot of pasta, potatoes, and bread—carbs are essential with all that walking!—plus meat slices and cheese.

For more information or to plan your trip, visit CaminoConcierge.com or follow on Instagram @caminoconcierge.

Spain offers exquisite cuisine that varies as you progress west, so in larger towns and cities, I ate at restaurants to sample the local flavors of the provinces we were passing through. Rioja is known for its red wine. Galicia, in the northwest corner of Spain, bears a remarkable resemblance to Ireland, with rolling green hills, sheep, V I E MAGAZ INE . COM | 95

Just in time for Miami Art Week, Lincoln Road, the iconic outdoor shopping, dining, and cultural destination in the heart of Miami Beach, revealed R-Evolution. The monumental 45-foot-tall, 32,000-pound kinetic sculpture glows in the sun and illuminates at night thanks to RGB LED lights, displayed in partnership with the City of Miami Beach. The towering nude female sculpture, showcased on the East Coast for the first time, debuted at Burning Man in 2015. It was designed by Marco Cochrane, the artist behind monumental sculptures at the Smithsonian Art Museum and the $4.3 billion Resorts World Las Vegas. R-Evolution will be displayed on the 400 Block of Lincoln Road through April 2024. To learn more, visit LincolnRoad.com. Photo by Eleanor Preger

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Petite pause

A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform. —DIANE MARIECHILD

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Becky G

PAT B O M I A M I O P E N I N G PA RT Y On December 6, 2023, PatBO celebrated the opening of its store in Miami and the launch of the second capsule collaboration between creative director Patricia Bonaldi and supermodel/influencer Alessandra Ambrosio. Sofi Tukker curated the evening’s music, including a special acoustic performance by Sophie Hawley-Weld. Guests enjoyed drinks by Cincoro Tequila, Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça, Roseblood Wine, and Gorgie. Designer sandals were provided by Havaianas. Photography by Rommel Demano/BFA

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Alessandra Ambrosio, Patricia Bonaldi, and Sophie Hawley-Weld

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Jessica Chirino, Anggie Ann Bryan, and Clara Berry

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Café Thirty-A held its annual Christmas Charity Ball on December 2, 2023. The restaurant closed for the private event and transformed with festive holiday decor courtesy of The Grove Salon. Guests arrived in gorgeous evening attire and enjoyed an incredible spread by the restaurant’s award-winning culinary team, a DJ, and more. This was the first Christmas Charity Ball since Café Thirty-A’s longtime owner, Harriett Crommelin, passed away earlier this year. “Harriett looked forward to this event, year after year,” says co-owner Jackie Maliszewski. “She loved bringing together her friends, longtime patrons, and community members for a festive evening benefiting our local community. She was always passionate about giving back, and we’re proud to continue hosting one of her most treasured events.” The silent auction and raffle raised $64,000 for Caring and Sharing of South Walton’s efforts to provide food and financial assistance to local families and individuals. Photography by Fletcher Isacks Jennifer Albert, Merry Beth Myrick, and Mindy Norris

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Stacy and Bryan Pritchett, Hannah Martin, and Marisol Gullo

La scène

JoJo Quiroz, Marie Leoni, and Maricel Quiroz

M A R I E L EO N I H O L I DAY T R U N K S H OW

Christy Lee, Marie Leoni, and Maria Ruiz

Marie Leoni, a talented Dallas-based jewelry designer, held a holiday trunk show at Marie Leoni Gifts & Jewelry in WaterColor, Florida, on December 8. Guests explored all of her stunning handmade pieces, from exotic stones to dainty layering chains, while enjoying a warm cup of craft coffee from Coastal Coffee Bar Co., sweet treats by Small Pinch Cookies, and canned cocktails by Saint Spritz, all with a gorgeous balloon backdrop by Cindy White Balloon Design! Marie is available for custom designs. Check out all of her offerings at MarieLeoni.com. Photography by Kelly Curry

Jack Kirkendall, Sally Neal, McKenna Mears, Anna Simpson, Kelly Curry, and Lisa Marie Burwell

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The Last Word

Solution on next page

LIVING WELL BY MYLES MELLOR

ACROSS

DOWN

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Taking light exercise Roughage good for digestion Get all lovey-dovey Diminish in function Ulcer cause, in popular belief Subject for an optometrist Herbal tea that’s good for digestion Let’s __ lunch! Remedies “Count your ____ by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears.” —John Lennon Peach state, abbr. ___biotics Relating to the soul as opposed to the body Appetizer __ luck (fortunate) Excellent simple exercise Sweet tropical fruit Extraordinary perception, abbr. Period Sure! They bring water to the garden

Health bar drink choices Dental problem corrected by braces Way of reducing swelling from an injury Not that either Travel Good physical condition Vital pollinators Bring back to health Joint which has a patella Pitcher’s stat., abbr. Canned fish that are a vital source of Omega-3 fatty acids Energy Quality of being nimble and able to move easily Type of scan ___ moment: when one realizes something Leaving Closed up, after surgery, e.g. Small bay Strong compulsions Fluid containing white blood cells which bathes the tissues Military missions, abbr.

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The Last Word Puzzle on previous page

“

To get rich, never risk your health. For it is the truth that health is the wealth of wealth. —Richard Baker

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Au revoir! BEFORE YOU GO . . .

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Visit Belmond.com/hotels and find La Samanna on the map to book your luxurious Caribbean getaway! Photo courtesy of Belmond

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